We learn how Winston becomes “Mad Dog the Chef” by trying to improve the diet of himself and his friends. This is the first in a series of doggie adventures about a culinary mut and his neighbourhood pals. Mad Dog’s recipe for “Barking Meatballs” is included and can be created by children and offered to the family pooch.

Reviewer: Lucy Sussex

Winston the dog is unhappy with his tinned food. He resolves to do something about it and becomes a canine chef, complete with checked trousers. This book has brightly coloured, cartoonish illustrations that will readily appeal to children, and an accessible text. At the end appears a recipe for Winston’s barking meatballs, approved by a qualified vet. Thus children are inducted into simple home cookery. The recipe is to be made under adult supervision – small wonder, when the ingredients include honey, mince and liver.