[A Dog So Small is] most moving….

Philippa Pearce's book is full of truth and truths for all sensitive readers to pick up if they will. She never writes "between the lines" for a grown-up audience. Everything is outspoken. Ben feels deeply, but his emotions are all those that children will recognize. This is not the best of this distinguished writer's books, but it has a fine finish, and like the work of a craftsman seems carefully made to satisfy, firstly, her exacting self.

"Animal Challenge: Opportunities for Heroism," in The Times Literary Supplement (© Times Newspapers Ltd. (London) 1962; reproduced from The Times Literary Supplement by permission), No. 3144, June 1, 1962, p. 397.∗