Take the Lead

this is an excellent handbook for those who are looking for a four-legged addition to grow their family, detailing everything from choosing a breed to grooming to health and well-being … peppered with interesting asides …This modern, colourful guide is a delight to read will help children become responsible owners to happier, healthier dogs. The vivid illustrations are simply adorable and show the joy and excitement pets bring to homes. Take the Lead has a wealth of knowledge and the imagery, gentle tone and playful layout of information (such as boxes and lists) mean it is accessible and suitable for children of all ages. Parents can also be reassured that readers’ safety is recognised throughout and the importance of seeking advice from vets where necessary

-- Booktrust

What a wonderful read and fantastic gift for all ages about caring for dogs properly..... I loved it

* PetBond *

wonderful illustrations … beautiful illustrations … a reference forever

* Shannonside-Northern Sound’s Joe Finnegan Show *

from working out if you and your family are ready for a dog, to choosing the right breed, this attractive pocket-sized paperback is full of useful information for young dog owners. It covers all kinds of practical things from naming your dog, to the hows and whys of setting house rules for both dogs and humans, and it also includes lots of important and easy-to-follow training tips. The friendly-looking, colourful illustrations by award-winning illustrator Jennifer Farley add to the book’s appeal, and it comes with a recommendation from dog trainer and vet, Gillian Hick

* Irish Independent *

it is a truth universally acknowledged, that a small child in possession of anyone to pester, must be in want of a dog. Thanks to Take the Lead, a lovely new book by Elena Browne, and endorsed by vet Gillian Hick, you can make sure your child knows what they’re talking about when they say "but I PROMISE to look after it all by myself!" [featured illustration by Jennifer Farley]

* Irish Times *

with more people spending time at home during Covid-19 restrictions, there has been a surge in demand from families looking to adopt and buy pets. Elena Browne’s guide to caring for a dog, therefore, couldn’t have been published at a better time, not least for those currently trying to make decisions about whether to introduce a dog into their home. Indeed, much of her guide to dog-ownership should be required reading before any such decision is reached ... accessible guide to caring for a dog … encourages children – and potential dog-owners of all ages – to ask themselves why they want to own a dog ... Browne is there to lead owners through the do’s and don’ts ... a no-nonsense guide to animal ownership in an Irish context, balancing the joys of having a canine friend with the practicalities and responsibilities that entails’

* Evening Echo *

'really helpful – great lil book for all new dog owners'

* Lottie Ryan *

a lovely book ... lovely illustrations

-- Ian Dempsey's Breakfast Show * Today FM *

If you’re considering getting a dog or would like to continue training your dog, then Take the Lead by Elena Browne and illustrated by Jennifer Farley is the ideal guide for you and your canine companion to enjoy … Celebrating the history of ‘man’s best friend’ Take the Lead is a practical guide for anyone hoping to get a dog or already an experienced dog owner looking to increase their knowledge and skills. From cover to cover, this is a fun, uplifting and engaging book. An ideal gift, but also a perfect addition to any classroom and home. Elena Browne’s warm and encouraging text is a perfect complement to Jennifer Farley’s entertaining and exuberant illustrations, which are sure to make you smile. There’s also an array of gorgeous photos of dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds; crossed, mixed and pedigrees. The information is succinct, and the simple and colourful layout is ideal for emerging readers 7+. Take the Lead is a guide to treasure. It’s sure to be a big hit!

* RTEjr's Book Club *

a colourful factfile for any age

* Irish Examiner *

This book is a compendium of all things dogs and advocates for correct dog caring for anyone considering a new furry addition to their home. Brown’s guidance on dog training and how to care for your dog will leave the reader confident in their care as a canine owner. Farley’s playful illustrations and design keep the eye searching, as each page hosts a pack of fluffy pals. This is a perfect care manual for any child considering adopting a new fourlegged friend

* Children's Books Ireland *

The ultimate guide for young dog owners, Take the Lead uses fun facts and eye-catching illustrations to educate children on caring for their furry friend

* Image Magazine *

A useful book for any young dog owner, packed with sensible information and facts

* Irish Independent *

a fantastic book for anyone with a dog or even thinking about getting one. It has lots of great points which are clearly laid out in each chapter. The illustrations and photographs are super too. It really helps you to know how and what your dog is thinking. It is a very practical book to have. You could easily refer back to it at anytime for advice and answers. We really enjoyed reading it. It would be good for any pupil in upper primary school. It is a more important book now than before the pandemic as many people got a dog due to working remotely from home - By 6th Class Pupils in Craanford NS, Co. Wexford

-- Seomra R