Alfred’s Nose by Vivienne Flesher.

I’ve always enjoyed picture books for small children that use photographs.  I know that that is why this one zoomed to the top of my toppling picture book piles.  Anyone else a sucker for photos?  Frankly, I’m not sure why I am…

Alfred is a French bulldog with a smooshed-looking nose.  Everyone loves him, but he hates the way he looks.  His tongue always sticks out, his nose won’t hold up glasses, and his head is as round as a pumpkin.  To fix this, Alfred looks for accessories that will help.  He finds a bin of animal noses that he can strap on his face, but only one of them will cover both his nose and tongue!  And then he can’t give his sloppy kisses!  What’s a dog to do?

Crisp, clear colored photographs make this book work.  As does the equally clear text that moves the story right along.  The selection of fake noses will have both you and the children you are sharing the book with laughing.  I am particularly partial to the elephant nose, myself. 

Not a revolutionary picture book, but one that will bring smiles to everyone who reads it.  Recommended for ages 4-6.