Perhaps the classic plot for a kids’ story is about running away from home, getting lost and/or in trouble, and finally getting back to the comfort and security of home. This is the story of Peter Rabbit, Max in the land of the Wild Things, Mr. Mole in the Wild Wood, and now this delicious romp by Andrea Beck, creator of the Elliot Moose series.

Pierre, a pampered poodle, is being exhibited at a dog show by his owner, Miss Murphy, when he escapes to roam free on the streets with a group of strays, sampling the “buffet breakfast” available in the garbage cans he comes across and having an intriguing amount of rubbish attach itself to his long coat. Despite the interesting variety of snacks available, however, Pierre finds life on the streets chilly and desolate – his show haircut doesn’t give him much protection from the elements, and he longs for Miss Murphy’s cuddles. Finding his way home, he must persuade Miss Murphy’s neighbours that under all the debris clinging to his fur, this smelly waif is indeed Pierre Le Poof.

In both text and watercolour pictures, Beck delights readers with the details of Pierre’s home life in a toy-strewn apartment and his brief sojourn on the city streets. A careful look at the pictures supplies some details unmentioned in the text, such as the Lost Dog posters Miss Murphy has put up around the city and the way that Pierre’s polka-dot coat and waterproof booties coordinate with his owner’s outdoor outfit. The images, particularly, reinforce in a lively and humorous way the loving bond between Miss Murphy and her pampered pooch, who fantasizes about being wild and free to roam and roll in any stinky thing he pleases.

This is apparently the first of a series about Pierre, a dog whose further adventures it will be a pleasure to follow.