The Littlest Sled Dog is the ninth collaboration between Inuit storyteller Michael Kusugak and Czech-born illustrator Vladyana Krykorka. Like several of their earlier works, this one is set in Kusugak’s hometown of Rankin Inlet. The hero this time is a very charming cairn terrier named Igvillu, who dreams of becoming a sled dog.

Igvillu starts life in a kennel in Red Deer, but soon goes to live “with a storyteller, way up north in northern Canada.” She may wear red booties and sleep in a cozy bedroom, but Igvillu still dreams big, practising being a sled dog by pulling on the leash. When she finally encounters real sled dogs, however, she gets the shock of her life.

Kusugak’s story meanders a bit, especially at the beginning. But his words come alive when read aloud, and he clearly knows what details will keep children engaged. Igvillu is based on his own cairn terrier of the same name, and like most pet owners, he imagines a rich and amusing inner life for his furry companion.

Krykorka’s illustrations are alive with texture and colour. The left side of each spread is decorated with stark black-and-white images in a stonecut style. On facing pages, lovely watercolours contrast the cold blue-green beauty of the North with the warm safety of Igvillu’s world, which Krykorka paints in browns, reds, and yellows.

The Littlest Sled Dog will appeal to young dog lovers, not only because Igvillu himself is so charming, but because his story evokes the essential conflict of childhood – the need to venture out into the big, cold world to explore, while never straying too far from the warmth and safety of home.