Problems with Pooski by Sharon O'Flaherty is a cute rhyming story about the trials and tribulations of taking on a puppy. Pooski was left in a cardboard box with a note asking for her to be taken care of. When she gets a new, loving home, she is curious and playful, but with a pup, that can lead to chaos. Chewed shoes and phones, shredded paper everywhere, and nibbled toes are just a few of the mischievous things Pooski gets up to, and her new dad decides it’s time for her to go to a new home. But the rest of the family disagrees, and new bonds are created as Pooski becomes a permanent addition with her loving, patient family.

Problems with Pooski by Sharon O’Flaherty is a wonderful story with lovely illustrations that highlights not just the joy of having a new pup but also the problems that come with it. Every kid loves a fluffy, bouncing pup, but the adults know that a new pup can mean trouble—in the best way, of course. Things get chewed, and training is hard, and sometimes, tough decisions have to be made. This book is a reminder that, even though young pups are a lot of fun, they are also a huge responsibility, but perseverance and patience pay off in the end. This story is written in rhyme, making it easier for kids to follow and even more fun to read. It’s the ideal book for any family thinking about getting a new puppy, just to have an idea of what to expect. It also tells kids that not all dogs have to come from a breeder – there are plenty of abandoned pups and strays that need a loving home. Lovely book, a lot of fun to read, and including a photo of who I assume is the real Pooski is a nice touch.

Problems with Pooski by Sharon O'Flaherty follows the story of an abandoned pup and her adventures. A young boy finds a cute pup placed in a box with a note and brings her home. He names her Pooski. Soon, however, the boy and his family discover that Pooski isn't like most other dogs. She is very stubborn. She refuses to play fetch, won't answer when they call her name, and seems to enjoy making a mess with toilet paper. She even bites the young boy's mother's shoe on the day of her big interview. The young boy's father finally comes to a decision. He spreads the word for another family to adopt Pooski. But the young boy isn't ready to give her up. Will he be able to keep Pooski?

Problems with Pooski is a fun adventure book that teaches the values of patience, empathy, and kindness. Although it's a children's book, even older readers will find it delightful. Author Sharon O'Flaherty uses a catchy rhyme to tell a heartwarming story that kids are going to love. For families with pets, this picture book is a must-have on your bookshelves. O'Flaherty does a brilliant job of showing why stubborn pets must be treated with patience and understanding to make sure they acclimate to their new environments. The characters are relatable and immensely likable. The young boy and his family have their own adventure as they try to manage Pooski. Pooski is a mischievous yet adorable pup who readers will adore. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Young readers shouldn't miss out on this!

Must read! - Five Stars

Is your family considering adopting a puppy? If so, I encourage you to read Problems with Pooski first. It gives a genuine look at the happy and frustrating moments of welcoming a new pup into your home. It even shows how a family struggles with the idea of returning or finding a new home for a dog whose energy doesn't fit with the family's.

Pooski behaved like a typical untrained dog. It chewed on inappropriate items. (Shoes, of course, but sod much more!) They left big messes. They whimpered while in their crate. The dog's behavior could not be ignored, and it was time to find Pooski a new home...or was it?

Rehoming a pet is never an easy choice. The decision leaves owners sad and doubting whether they are making the right move. The family in Problems with Pooski wrestled with the question of whether Pooski should stay or be rehomed. As the options weighed heavily on all their minds, they began to reflect on all the joy Pooski brought to their lives. All the dog kisses, comfort, and relaxing moments were captured in the darling illustrations. And, in the end, the family acknowledged that they had bonded with the dog and couldn't give him up, but they couldn't live with an untrained dog. A very relatable real-life predicament!

The children's book gives potential dog owners a real look at what they will face when introducing a dog into the family. Problems with Pooski shows the naughty and nice behaviors or actions a dog owner may encounter, along with a common solution to fix unruly behavior. I recommend reading this book if your family is contemplating adopting a dog, your pup is acting up, or if you just love animal books!

Problems with Pooski tells the story of a nervous little puppy found abandoned in a box and taken in by a compassionate family. What begins as an act of kindness quickly turns into a whirlwind of chaos, as Pooski proves to be mischievous, stubborn, and full of destructive energy. From chewing everything in sight to causing household disasters, she pushes the family to their limits. When her behavior finally seems like too much to handle, the family faces the heartbreaking possibility of giving her away. Yet, in a touching turn, they reflect on the joy and comfort Pooski brings, ultimately choosing patience, training, and love over perfection.
 
This charming rhyming story captures the reality behind pet ownership in a way that feels both honest and heartwarming. Rather than presenting an idealized, perfectly behaved animal, the book embraces the messy, frustrating, and deeply rewarding experience of welcoming a pet into the family. The playful rhythm and humor make it engaging for young readers, while the emotional core offers a meaningful message about commitment, empathy, and growth.
 
What stands out most is how the story balances chaos with compassion. Pooski’s “problems” are never treated as reasons to give up on her, but as opportunities to learn and bond. The resolution, which emphasizes training, responsibility, and unconditional love, feels both satisfying and realistic.
 
Overall, Problems with Pooski is a delightful and relatable read that will resonate with children and adults, especially anyone who has ever loved a not-so-perfect pet. It’s a gentle reminder that family isn’t about flawlessness, it’s about sticking together through it all.