This might be one of my favorite children’s books that I have ever read, and let me tell you, I’ve read a lot of them. I think I find this book so charming because there’s nothing else like it. It’s completely unique and that’s rare to find in a children’s book. I’ll admit, I’m a bit of a sucker for any book that involves a dog, but the story behind this one is just darling. I think children of all ages will enjoy this book- while toddlers may be too young to understand the words, they’ll enjoy the whimsical illustrations and the abridged story that can be told. I love the way the author wrote this- it’s clever and quirky and so fun to read. Each word seems like it was perfectly chosen to make this the delightful read the author intended. And don’t even get me started on the ending! I adored the last page… I was surprised by the ending and how perfectly it tied everything together. This book has, perhaps, the cutest (and most important) message a children’s book can have… the message that there is always more to learn about the people around us. We think we know someone, but we really don’t… there is always more to discover and understand. I will 100% be pre-ordering this book and giving it to all of my friends as gifts. In true Oprah style I’ll be throwing these books at everyone, “You get a book, you get a book, you get a book!” I truly loved it that much.

*Thank you so much to the authors and netgalley for allowing me to read and review such a darling book.*

Such a fantastically written and illustrated picture book! Is Roy really a dog? How much do you actually know about your neighbors? A delightful and comedic picture book that encourages authenticity, community, and understanding.

This was absolutely delightful. The illustrations is charming. It was captivating from start to finish. My children and I highly recommend this lovely read. It's one we'll return to again and again. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.

Weasel is stumped at the identity of his mysterious neighbor Roy. He has long flappy ears like a dog, he eats raw steak like a dog, but Pam Pam says lots of people do that too. This book was so fun and had such fun little puns and tricky words to give hints and clues about Roy throughout! The illustrations were whimsical and matched perfectly to the story. Definitely a fun read aloud for the family!

What a charming little book. Sweet, short, and to the point. Lovely art. Dogs. Will be looking for more of this author in the future.

What a fun kid’s book. I love that Weasel’s inquisitive nature leads him to discovering things not only about his neighbor Roy, but it allows him to realize while you may think you know everything about those who you live around that is not always true. They could always surprise you. Kids are going to love trying to figure out Roy’s secret with Weasel and Pam Pam. The artwork is beautiful and I love how it shows kids that sometimes things aren’t always as they seem at first glance.
Thank you so much to Penguin Random House Canada, Tundra Books, And Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.

An absolute charmer from Esme Shapiro - I would expect nothing less! This book has left me with the biggest grin on my face. I simply cannot wait to thrust it into the hands of every person who walks through the door.

This is a quirky, creative book with really fun illustrations. The story focuses on solving a mystery and learning about your neighborhood. I really enjoyed it. Thanks #NetGalley

Roy is Not a Dog is sure to captivate the reader with a mysterious and exciting plot that is difficult to put down. Weasel knows everyone on Lilypod Lane, except for Roy. Weasel’s mind creates spectacular possibilities of who Roy could be. After some serious daydreaming, Weasel thinks he has figured out who Roy is. Friends Pam Pam and Weasel speculate, and eventually solve the mystery. The duo has a new friend named Roy, and even though they thought Roy would be angry about figuring out his identity, he is actually quite relieved to feel accepted and have friends. This is a truly magical book with clues hiding deep in the pages. The illustrations provide hints throughout the book about the alleged close-knit street of Lilypod Lane, and that possibly there is more to it than originally believed. Both the text and illustrations in the ending tie the whole book together magnificently. A surprisingly fun and curious book!