

The best way to immerse the reader into the book is to bring it to life in the way that you read it. I’m demonstrating the power of intonation and oracy here, showing my daughter how to bring that theatrical performance into a good read. I love reading these parts of the story to my daughter with a smooth and calm voice like an M&S advert or an Attenborough documentary. The image of an outstretched paw from Slinky Malinki reminds me of the gentle satisfaction achieved from stretching and taking your time. Watching Hercules Morse *whispers ‘as big as a horse’* half- basking in the hot sun with his tail gently wagging reminds us to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Lynley Dodd’s stories are simplistic yet wonderful, just like the dogs who star in them. Dogs are the masters of the easy, stress-free life and we can learn so much from them. One thing I have learned from animal-loving Ricky Gervais is to take inspiration from dogs and their love for life. The life of a dog is a wondrous thing to observe and appreciate. The books capture the life of a dog superbly (and cats). Here are five reasons why you should share these books with children, whether at home or in school.ġ) These books are perfect for dog lovers. My daughter and I absolutely adore Lynley Dodd’s Hairy Maclary books. 5 Reasons to Read Hairy Maclary 5 September 2019 12:21 pm
