Dog has a terrific group of friends, but he wants everyone to know he’s the best. He can run faster than Mole, dig better than Goose, swim better than Donkey, and he’s bigger than Ladybug. His friends are feeling pretty sad until they realize that Dog isn’t the only one with bragging rights, and they turn the tables by proclaiming accomplishments of their own. Now Dog is the one feeling sad, not only because he’s not the best but because “I’m just a silly show-off.” He apologizes to his friends, and that’s when they prove just how wonderful they are in Lucy Cousins’s funny picture book. The author/illustrator’s colorful, childlike illustrations are as appealing as ever, and her narrative is spot on when it comes to portraying the need to be the best that will be familiar to many young children. Dog’s ego bounces back higher than ever on the final page of this entertaining story that also offers a great opportunity for discussion. (Ages 3–6)