November 1, 2024
In this follow-up to singer Parton and co-author Perl'sBilly the Kid Makes It Big (2023), literal and figurative bumps in the road imperil the touring canine country star's promise to be home for Christmas. Inspired by one of Parton's holiday songs, the tale sees Billy, a small brown French bulldog, and bandmates Bo, Buster, and Binky boarding a tour bus for "pawsome" glimpses of natural wonders along with meetings with fans and "puparazzi." Then, although Billy has sent many letters home promising to be there for the holiday, an invitation to play Barkafeller Center on Christmas Day instantly changes his tune. "Billywas happy. Though he still felt a little...he wasn't sure what." Readers may be excused for having mixed feelings about his mixed feelings, not to mention his tersely unapologetic note to the folks. But when, thanks to a bus-busting rock in the road on Christmas Eve, it looks like the band will have to contrive their own celebration ("Silent night, howly night"), Billy remembers that he started making music in the first place for his loved ones. He has no problem bagging the big concert (Fans? What fans? Contract? What contract?) when Dolly herself rolls up in her own bus to offer a ride back to his "Tennessee mountain home" in time for a small show for "the most important audience in the world." While Billy cuts an endearing figure in Haley's cartoonish illustrations, his willingness to disappoint first family, then fans may have readers feeling less than cheery. A holiday outing that doesn't quite satisfy. (lyrics to Parton's "Comin' Home for Christmas")(Picture book. 5-7)
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November 2, 2024
K-Gr 2-Any fan of Dolly Parton knows she has a soft spot for Christmas-see her many Christmas songs, albums, specials, and movies-so it seems natural that her "Billy the Kid" picture book series would have a holiday entry. In this follow-up to Billy the Kid Makes it Big, Billy, a French bulldog and a famous musician, is on tour with his band and trying to find a way to get back to his family despite his busy schedule. When his tour bus breaks down, Billy must face the reality that his Christmas dreams may not come true. The premise is simple but heartfelt and effective, thanks to that Dolly Parton charm and enough Easter eggs for her fans (like Billy's song "Barking 9 to 5"). Parton and Perl manage to avoid tilting into heavy-handedness, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions about Billy's inner turmoil under the glitz and glam. There is even an au courant message about the pressures of fame and wanting to live a normal life outside of the spotlight. Back matter includes lyrics to Parton's song "Comin' Home for Christmas." VERDICT While not an essential purchase, libraries where holiday titles are popular may want to get their paws on this adorable book.-Alexandra Quay
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