Officer Buckle and Gloria/ Caldecott

Plot Summary:

            Officer Buckle is a very safety conscious police officer, even so, the staff and students that he serves at Napville School sleep during his lessons and end up having disastrous accidents anyway. That is, until he gets a new police dog, Gloria. While the officer isn’t looking, Gloria does tricks for the students, and this makes them pay attention. Officer Buckle is thrilled with his success, until he sees a video of him and Gloria on TV. Officer Buckle is embarrassed; he brings Gloria to the school the next day and leaves her alone, thinking she is the star of the show. Gloria is a flop by herself, and to make matters worse, there is a huge accident at the school. Everyone wants Officer Buckle back.

Personal Reaction:

            This book is very cute; it is funny and has a great message about teamwork. I also love the very light, positive way in which Officer Buckle, a police officer is depicted. The illustrations are bright, and very cheery despite the conflict of the story. In addition, they are a little rough, creating a more cartoonish feel to the story. Also, there are many curved lines which contribute to the lightheartedness of this tale.

Rathmann, P. (1995). Officer Buckle and Gloria. New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons.