Pantaloon

Pantaloon by Kathryn Jackson

The original version is linked on the left.

The shiny new reissue is linked on the right.

Source of Miscellany: A gift from my nostalgic mother.  She fondly remembered this story of a poodle turned baker and ordered it for me because we often call my dog “the bakery dog.”  He’s been known to hop directly onto the dining room table (shunning even chairs as steps) to chase a muffin or scone, while a steak left at snout level can escape unscathed.  Strange little beast I own.

Why this book?: Violent envy.  My parents are in France right now.  Have been for the past 2 weeks.  They are enjoying all manner of delicious desserts (although it’s doubtful they were poodle prepared).  I, however, am stuck here in a world entirely devoid of glamour.  In the past week I’ve used a homemade wrench to open a drain cover, slipped on slate while taking out the trash and cleaned out a drainpipe filled with leaves, acorns and all manner of other ooky things.  While there’s nothing actually in Pantaloon to suggest that it takes place in France, I’ve always thought of it that way.  Where else would a French Poodle live?

Pantaloon is overjoyed when he sees a help wanted sign at his favorite shop – the bakery!  His good cheer quickly dissipates when the baker sends him packing (a truly biased move if you ask me, the baker’s rather weak reason is that he suspects Pantaloon will eat more than he’ll help – if you’re looking at the original version you’ll probably see that Mr. Baker may be projecting a bit; his waistline is none too trim).  Pantaloon tries to pass as an old lady but he is sadly discovered.  His big break comes when the busy baker trips over Pantaloon’s bicycle.  Pantaloon is distraught, but also incredibly helpful.  In no time he’s done all of the work for the bakery and the customers are impressed.  When the baker heals, Pantaloon is again distraught, fearing he’ll be turned out again.  But in the end, he’s the star of the day.

All ratings below are based on the original, I haven’t seen the new version yet.

Sex, Nudity, Dating – Pantaloon is shown in the bath. Oh la la!  He also dresses as a lady to try to trick the baker.
Profanity – None.
Death, Violence and Gore – The baker takes a nasty tumble.
Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking – None.
Frightening or Intense Things – None.