A pug named Sam, who believes he's a human, narrates his humorous adventures in diary format as he protects his new family from imagined and real threats, showcasing loyalty and the quest for belonging. Through quirky antics and funny misunderstandings, Sam's story unfolds with heartwarming moments and laugh-out-loud humor, making it an engaging read for children and dog lovers alike.

Reader Review Summary

"They Call Me No Sam!" by Drew Daywalt and Mike Lowery is a delightfully hilarious and heartwarming chapter book that will have readers of all ages laughing out loud. The book is narrated from the perspective of Sam, a lovable and fiercely loyal pug who thinks he's a human being and his owners are "naked-monkey-things."

One of the book's greatest strengths is its unique and captivating narrative voice. Sam's inner monologue and observations are utterly charming and endlessly amusing, offering a fresh and entertaining perspective on the world. His misunderstandings and imaginative interpretations of everyday objects and situations, such as referring to a hairdryer as a "brain-melting heat cannon" or thinking his reflection is a "ghost wolf," are a constant source of hilarity.

The story is cleverly structured as Sam's diary, allowing readers to follow his adventures and thought processes in an engaging and intimate way. The diary format, coupled with the abundant illustrations and comics, creates a visually appealing and dynamic reading experience that will undoubtedly captivate young readers.

Beneath the humor lies a heartwarming tale of belonging and the unbreakable bond between a dog and their family. Sam's unwavering devotion to protecting his new owners, the Petersons, from perceived threats (including Justin's crush, whom Sam believes is an "evil wizard") is both endearing and laugh-out-loud funny. Despite his misguided antics, Sam's intentions are always pure, and his determination to keep his family safe is a testament to the unconditional love pets have for their humans.

The book's pacing is excellent, with a steady stream of hilarious situations and surprises that keep the reader engaged from start to finish. Daywalt's writing is witty and clever, striking the perfect balance between silly humor and genuine emotion.

Mike Lowery's illustrations are an absolute delight, perfectly capturing Sam's expressive personality and the absurdity of his adventures. The combination of text and visuals creates a rich and immersive reading experience that will appeal to both young readers and adults alike.

Overall, "They Call Me No Sam!" is a must-read for anyone who loves a good laugh, appreciates heartwarming stories about the human-animal bond, or simply wants to experience the world through the delightfully skewed perspective of a lovable pug. With its charming narrator, hilarious situations, and heartfelt themes, this book is sure to become a beloved classic for children and adults alike.