Kids, meet Dave. Dave’s a cool guy from another world, very different from ours. He’s not human, but he has many of the same characteristics as us, such as having the feelings, capable of thinking, living, breathing, moving. Come to think of it, Dave’s more like us…and so many other species on Planet Earth. That’s reason enogh why we love Carlos Patiño’s children’s book, Dave Loves Chickens.

This vegan-friendly kids’ story makes a connection between humans and non-humans that many of us lost as we were growing up. Through Mr. Patiño, Dave teaches children of all ages how to appreciate other animals, not just humans and those we keep as pets. Children should question why humans would eat meat, when it’s not necessary. It’s okay to see all animals as who they are, not what they can do for our consumption. Compassionate education and love broadens one’s horizons to see an entire galaxy beyond this world. There are so many lessons to be taught from this simple, short tale that I would recommend Dave Loves Chickens to be added to any early childhood reading list.

In addition to the story, the illustrations just pop! Carlos Patiño’s uses bright, fun designs to attract the youngest readers while keeping the adults engaged as well. It’s not just simple pictures and words from the old Dick & Jane days!

We fell in love with Dave and his friends, while reading through the pages with our cats. While we’re not parents (yet), I feel this book is great for a bedtime tale or midday storytime! If we could fall in love with Dave for loving chickens and being what some would say “human,” we think you will too!

You can purchase Dave Loves Chickens on Amazon.com or directly from Vegan Publishers! Get yourself and one for a friend today!

Also, check out Carlo Patiño’s work on his website.
You gotta love a guy who’s illustrated himself in a Minor Threat t-shirt. Right on!