Maria wants a dog of her own, and this forms the plot of the children's picture book Maria Wants a Dog by Brenda Awkar. Her father has promised her a dog once she turns 6. But she realizes there’s a lot to consider. The care of the dog (or puppy) involves feeding, refilling the water bowl, letting the dog outside regularly and cleaning up any messes both inside and out, walking the dog, playing with the dog, and training the dog. Before the work begins, Maria has to choose the right dog for her. She wonders if she should have a small dog like her aunt, only that dog is so yappy. Then there’s the big dog her grandfather owns and he wears a police uniform just like her grandfather. Maria thinks that’s too big for her. Finally, she decides to visit the local dog shelter with her father. What kind of dog (or puppy) do you think she’ll choose?

Brenda Akwar’s picture book story, Maria Wants a Dog: Maria Veut un Chien (Bilingual English-French picture book for kids) is another charming story from the series Little Miss Maria's World. This sweet story follows Maria’s decision-making process as she ponders the best dog (puppy) for her. The story is told in both English and French: first with a sentence of two in English, followed by the French translation. This is a great way to introduce young readers to two languages. With all the colorful illustrations, the story is easy to follow in either or both languages. The young reader also learns about dog care as the story progresses, along with a list of important dog care essentials (once again in both English and French) at the end of the book. Both entertaining and educational.

Children's picture books create a whole new world of learning and exploration. Children are like sponges and can absorb and embrace new things quickly and easily. Author Brenda Akwar takes children's learning to another level in her bilingual book, Little Miss Maria's World: Maria Wants a Dog (Maria Veut un Chien). Brenda teamed with illustrator Moud Daud who developed the creative and colorful works of art throughout the book, and French translator Celline Villier to develop a beautiful, touching English and French story about Maria's journey in choosing the ideal dog. Reading this book will leave you with a warm heart as you watch Marie weigh her options because she wants to make the right decision. As she looks at the different types of dogs, she must carefully decide which type of breed would suit her needs. To help your child become a responsible pet owner, there are some pet owner rules and an opportunity for them to add some of their own rules as well.

I fully enjoyed this book because, as the world evolves, children need to be introduced to new ideas and concepts. A book of this type will help to enhance and strengthen their cognitive skills while stimulating their brains. If English is your children's first language, learning French will incite pride and accomplishment in them. Having the ability to experience Little Miss Maria's World: Maria Wants a Dog, your child will be excited to learn a new language as they see the words and feel them roll off their tongues, introducing them to a different culture and being exposed to a new life. Maria Wants a Dog is strongly recommended.