Maxine gets a job

PreS-Gr 2--Social media sensation Maxine the Corgi is featured in a gentle story that explores the intersection of talent and careers through the eyes of a canine. Maxine just feels talented, from her expressive face to her squat little legs. Admiring all the "working" dogs who perform important duties, she job shadows their daily routines. Sadly, Maxine discovers certain jobs require physical characteristics that she does not possess or involve environments she doesn't enjoy. It becomes clear that job happiness lies at the intersection of ability and execution. Maxine still wants to work, but in a manner suited to her personality and Corgi body, landing upon entertaining. A dog who wears costumes and dances might not be the norm, but it is intrinsically Maxine. Themes of acceptance, striving, and self-awareness are emphasized. The picture book debut of Maxine (@madmax_fluffyroad) will appeal to her social media followers as well as Corgi fans in particular. The digital illustrations feature cartoonish broad expressions across all characters, including those in the background. The emotional highs and lows of Maxine's journey are clearly visible on her face. Similar in narrative structure to Deborah Diesen's The Pout-Pout Fish, this could prove a favorite repeat read. VERDICT A charming story whose social media star makes this an endorsed but optional purchase where demanded by circulation trends.--Jessica A. Bushore

A corgi sets out to find the right career. "Maxine had always known she was talented. She just didn't know what her talent was." Searching the internet, the perky pooch learns about dogs with jobs and decides to follow suit. First she talks to her best friend, Lady, who works as a lifeguard at the beach. Maxine is sure she could be the fluffiest lifeguard in the world--although she forgets something important: her aversion to swimming. Next, she consults her friend Toby, a guard dog who watches over the chickens on a farm. Maxine is certain she could be the fiercest chicken protector on the planet…but the wolves laugh at her tiny, fluffy body and her less-than-impressive bark. Maxine considers her other working friends--Rosie the sled dog, Dale the racing dog--but knows she wouldn't be well suited to those jobs, either. Then she realizes that they're all doing what they love. What does Maxine love? She enjoys playing funny characters and shaking her fluffy butt…could that be a career? Turns out the answer is yes, and Maxine becomes a stand-up comedian! Based on the authors' actual dog, who has a huge social media following, Maxine's a winning protagonist who learns a sound lesson: Following your passion is a surefire recipe for success. Batori's digitally created illustrations of adorable employed cartoon pooches are a perfect comedic match. Doggie devotees will be clamoring for further adventures. (Picture book. 2-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.