Pepe is a lonely dog until he finds a hat and becomes el perro en sombrero, a famous movie star. Disaster strikes when a jealous cat steals his sombrero, but it helps Pepe realize there is something better than fame. Henry's illustrations are lively, funny, and filled with action, and the alternation between the English and Spanish translations feels natural.

Pepe, a stray dog, encounters a sombrero. And with the sombrero on his head, Pepe becomes a rich and famous movie star. But in spite of fan letters and a doghouse mansion, Pepe is not happy. He wants a family. The twist comes when the previously most famous animal, Gato en Zapatos, becomes jealous and takes action by stealing Pepe's sombrero. The search for his missing hat leads Pepe to his perfect family e one that needs a dog. This bilingual offering depicts a humorous and ultimately feel-good story where everyone, including Gato, finds a place to belong. The illustrations' setting is a modern place where people play and celebrate life. This enjoyable tale will be useful in a bilingual classroom.

PreS-Gr 2 Pepe is a lonely street dog without a home or a loving family. When a strong wind blows a sombrero onto his head, people begin to take notice of the pup, and soon he and his sombrero are making movies and receiving letters from fans every day. But although Pepe now has fame and fortune, he has no family to call his own. When the jealous cat with purple shoes ( el gato en zapatos ) hatches a plan to take away Pepe's hatand the fame it bringsa chase through streets, weddings, and movie theaters ensues, ending with the cat cornered in a playground sandbox. Just as Pepe is about to get his sombrero back, a family nearby takes notice of him, and the little girl asks if they can take him home. Pepe looks at the family and at the cat holding the hat that made him so famous and tells the gato he can keep the sombrero. Pepe finally finds the precious love he has been seeking. Bright illustrations, quick action scenes, and warm humor are sure to draw the attention of young readers. This is a fun story, and its positive message about what is important in life will resonate with the picture book crowd. VERDICT A good addition for bilingual collections and collections where dog stories are popular. Selenia Paz, Helen Hall Library, League City, TX