Last updated on October 14th, 2025
Introduction
This The Adventures of Wembly the Pug Review is designed to provide you with more information on this title and to help you learn if it’s suitable for you.
First days can feel huge—even for a courageous little pug. The Adventures of Wembly the Pug: Wembly’s First Day of School uses bouncy rhyme, bright illustrations, and a reassuring message to help children name big feelings and try new things. Parents highlight how read-aloud friendly the book is and how the clean, high-contrast text design helps early readers follow along.
With a 5.0★ Amazon rating (≈53 reviews), it’s become a bedtime and classroom favorite for families who love pugs and positive social-emotional stories.
A warm, rhyming picture book that helps kids face first-day jitters—with a very brave pug.
Features
- Relatable SEL theme: Tackles first-day nerves with empathy and humor.
- Rhyming read-aloud: Smooth cadence that supports early literacy.
- Engaging art: Colorful, expressive scenes kids love to revisit.
- Clear text layout: Easy to track words on the page for emerging readers.
- Series hook: Launch title in The Adventures of Wembly the Pug
Top Features
- First-day-of-school story (SEL)
- Rhyming text + bright art
- High-contrast, easy-to-read pages
- Paperback, square trim (8.5″)
- Part of a growing series
Best For
- Kids 2–8 preparing for preschool/Kindergarten.
- Parents/teachers introducing feelings, bravery, and change.
- Pug fans wanting a heart-warming, repeat-read picture book
Overview
Evie’s pug, Oxford, has a serious crisp obsession. When a golden-ticket factory tour opportunity arises, it seems like the ultimate dream come true—until a bizarre twist transforms Oxford into a potato. Suddenly, Evie must navigate ridiculous challenges and outrageous scenarios to try and save her pug-tato.
The writing is simple and direct, tailored for reluctant readers who need momentum and humor more than long descriptions. Instead of dragging out the story, each chapter is sharp and to the point, filled with jokes and visual humor that appeal across ages. One standout feature is the included activity pack. Parents and teachers get access to comprehension questions, creative activities, and printable coloring pages—tools that transform laughter into real learning without kids even realizing it. This makes the book not just entertaining, but practical for use at home or in schools
The Adventures of Wembly the Pug: Wembly’s First Day of School
Editorial Reviews
Hailed the funniest children’s book ever… a fantastically funny illustrated chapter book for ages 7–10.” — The Table Read Magazine
“Fast-paced… with no long-winded or boggy descriptions.” — Editorial coverage highlighting accessibility and humor
About the Author
Wembly worries he won’t be brave enough for school—until family support (and a few small wins) help him try. The story keeps tension light, celebrates effort over perfection, and ends on a hopeful note. The rhymes read smoothly, making it easy to perform and discuss, while the bold illustrations invite kids to pause and point to emotions, colors, and little sight-gags. It’s a comforting pick for the week before school or any “new thing” milestone.
Editorial Reviews
“Children who are familiar with the traditional story will find this a fresh, funny alternative.”
This review also highlights the book’s photomontage visuals—real pug photos blended with illustrations—and playful characterization of the Big, Bad Cat, complete with a magenta cowboy hat and over-the-top personality. – Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
David E. Shoup is a children’s author with a theater background; he credits his 18-year companion Elvis the Pug as inspiration for Wembly. Illustrator Antonella Fant brings a playful, kid-friendly style that matches the book’s upbeat tone.
Product Details
| Detail | Info |
| Official Title | The Adventures of Wembly the Pug: Wembly’s First Day of School |
| Author | David E. Shoup |
| Illustrator | Antonella Fant |
| Publisher | Miriam Laundry Publishing |
| Publication Date | November 16, 2022 |
| Format | Paperback |
| Print Length | 32 pages |
| Reading Age | 3–5 years (sweet spot preschool–K) |
| Language | English |
| ISBN-10 | 1998816052 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1998816057 |
| Dimensions | 8.5 × 8.5 × ~0.08 in (21.59 × 21.59 × 0.2 cm) |
Key Benefits
- Normalizes first-day nerves and models coping.
- Supports read-aloud engagement with rhyme and rhythm.
- Encourages emotion talk (identify, name, and move through).
- Short, repeatable story that becomes a confidence ritual.
- Perfect gift for preschool/Kindergarten transition.
Verified Amazon Customer Reviews
Bailea — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Dec 15, 2022)
“Wembly the Pug is adorable… the art is adorable, the rhyming is great, and the story is relatable… text on a WHITE BACKGROUND… easy for my daughter to follow.”
Jon F — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Dec 24, 2022)
“Sweet, fun and encouraging with great rhyming flow and beautiful illustrations. A quick read that sparks conversations with kids 3–8.”
Kiley LaRue — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Jan 6, 2023)
“A bedtime favorite… our 2- and 3-year-olds know every word… great for talking about big feelings and being brave.”
FAQs
Is it part of a series?
Yes—this is the launch title in The Adventures of Wembly the Pug, with additional stories following.
Best age range?
The paperback edition lists 3–5; families report success up to age 8 for discussion and re-reads.
Hardcover available?
Yes—there’s a square-trim hardcover from the same publisher line, often listed by major booksellers.
🐶 Help your kid feel brave—order Wembly’s first-day adventure on Amazon →
Summary / Final Thoughts
Short, sweet, and reassuring, Wembly’s First Day of School delivers exactly what anxious littles need: a friendly pug, a bouncy rhyme, and proof that bravery grows with each small step. It’s a reliable pre-school kickoff pick and a charming must-add for pug-loving families. We hope that you found our The Adventures of Wembly the Pug Review beneficial. Learn more by clicking the link below.
📖 Ready for first-day courage? View The Adventures of Wembly the Pug on Amazon →
