Two dogs, a small bulldog and a little poodle are the main characters in this story from New York Times bestselling author Kelly DiPucchio and illustrator Christian Robinson.  What they learn? That family is truly about love and not looks!

The tale is about four puppies: Fi-Fi, Foo-Foo, Ooh-La-La, and Gaston. Gaston does his best at his lessons on how to be a true poodle. He sips—never slobbers! He yips—never yaps! And he walks with grace—never races! Gaston fits perfect with his little poodle sisters.

But then an encounter with a bulldog family in the park—Rocky, Ricky, Bruno, and Antoinette—changes everything. Obviously there has been a mix-up, and so Gaston and Antoinette switch their places. The new families look right…but they don’t feel right. Will the puppies follow their noses—and their hearts—to find where they really belong?

Another funny, meaningful illustrated gem by our favourite Christian Robinson!

In a video about the choices he made for the illustrations Christian Robinson points to the colours that challenge gender norms, the representation of coloured people  and the absence of traditional family structures  – in this case the missing of any father figures that were really important to him.

And these are some reviews the illustrator shares on his The Art of Fun – blog:

“Gaston will win hearts, as will his story’s message of belonging and family. A perfect read aloud that will leave them begging for more—an absolute delight.” —Kirkus

“Excellent messages about family, differences, and friendship are implicit. But first, just share and enjoy.”—Horn Book Magazine, starred review 
“Robinson’s naïf paintings are the source of tremendous delight in this story” —Publishers Weekly BEST SUMMER BOOKS 2014 Review