3 Reasons the New Dog Man Book Is the Ultimate Back-to-School Read

If you have a kid in school, chances are you’ve heard all about Dog Man. He is the ultimate kid-friendly hero: He’s half dog and half human (the result of a life-saving surgery), and all crime-biting hero. In the graphic novel series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man digs into deception, claws after crooks, and rolls over robbers.

Your kiddo might be begging you for the newest book in the series, For Whom the Ball Rolls, which you can order now! In fact, we know one mom whose kids were already making predictions before it was released about what would happen in the book. In this read, the seventh in the series, Dog Man is trying to overcome his bad habits — but becomes the target of an all-new supervillain. Meanwhile, Petey the Cat has been released from jail, but he must face his past to understand the difference between being good and doing good.

Beyond satisfying your child’s curiosity, this action-packed book and the rest in the series will actually ease your child back into reading to start the school year strong. Read on to find out how!

1. The Graphic Novel Style Counts as Reading — And Boosts Comprehension Skills!

Even though graphic novels are filled with engaging illustrations, they’re also packed with text. This means that when your kid is reading them, they’re practicing decoding, analyzing, and comprehending writing, not just glancing at pictures. Graphic novels provide extra encouragement for kids who are reluctant readers, and can foster a love of reading in all kids. Read more about the benefits of graphic novels here!

2. It Encourages Kids to Explore Their Creativity Through Writing and Drawing

Throughout the Dog Man books, kids will find fun prompts to draw the characters. In a few easy steps, they can actually learn to sketch a pretty convincing Dog Man! This fine-tunes motor skills and helps them practice following directions, both of which will come in handy throughout the school year. The graphic novel style of Dog Man will also inspire kids to create their own comics, which provides practice in writing, developing characters, considering point of view, and tapping into creativity.

3. Dog Man Will Be Your Child’s Buddy on the First Day of School

It’s completely normal for kids to be a little jittery on the first day of school. After all, there are new teachers, new peers, and new classes to adjust to! However, having a familiar, furry face in tow can make the transition a little easier.

Send your kid off with a favorite Dog Man book for study breaks or reading time (it’ll be a great conversation starter for meeting new friends), pack their PB&J in this Dog Man lunchbox, or give them a big hug from a Dog Man plush before they head out for the day. Younger kids might even want to take the plush with them for show-and-tell! No matter what your child’s age, a superhero canine can only make the first day of school better.