Latke, the Lucky Dog

This iconographic-animated adaptation of author Ellen Fischer and illustrator Tiphanie Beeke's delightful 2015 picture book is narrated by Kirby Heyborne. Kids Zoe and Zach—along with their parents—pick out a medium-sized puppy from the animal shelter as a Hanukkah present. They name him “Latke,” a moniker inspired by his coat, which is “golden brown like a fried latke.” The pup often voices the refrain “I am one lucky dog!” as the story—told from his point-of-view—finds Latke jumping on the table to scarf down the sufganiyot dessert (“I'm the new guy, so they must be for me!”), chewing on Zoe's dreidel, destroying the chocolate gelt used as prizes, and even ruining the candles for the menorah. After Dad notes that “maybe we picked the wrong dog,” Latke is frantic to learn the rules, and the accommodating family patiently helps their newest member acclimate. A sweet and amusing tale that also touches on cultural celebration, this is highly recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)