On the one hand, Bob the dog is a lot like most dogs. He likes breakfast, riding in cars, and going outside. But this picture book veers delightfully between the straightforward and the unexpected as every simple statement about things Bob likes is followed by one that surprises. Bob likes breakfast, and sometimes he makes it himself (in fact, he makes it for the whole family). Bob likes riding in the car, especially when he’s driving. When he’s outside, Bob likes playing golf. Another young dog owner, unaware of Bob’s unique talents, brags that her dog can catch, sit, and speak. Bob, it seems, can do none of these things. “We win!” says the girl. “I’m sorry,” says Bob on the way home. “That’s okay,” I said. The humorous premise plays out in both the cartoonlike art and text, both of which are understated (if it’s possible for a dog in an apron to be understated). (Ages 3–7)