Hilarious and heartwarming dog stories from nine renowned authors:
- Ann M. Martin
- Jon Muth
- Mark Teague
- Margarita Engle
- Thacher Hurd
- Valerie Hobbs
- Matt de la Pena
- Pam Munoz Ryan
- Wendy Orr For young readers who have ever wanted, known or loved a dog, the short stories in this anthology evoke the full spectrum of endearing doggy traits With stories ordered from easiest to most difficult to read, "Because of Shoe and Other Dog Stories "is a book for young readers of varying levels to enjoy.

Starfish have arms, but no legs. They have feet, but no toes. When starfish get hungry, they slide, glide, and feel their way in search of something to eat.

Starfish aren't fish, but they are living animals. Learn how starfish move, eat, and grow in Edith Hurd's poetic text, illustrated with Robin Brickman's vivid watercolor collages. Read and find out all about starfish, the stars of the sea.

Saxophone-playing Miles and his Swamp Band find a bevy of sharp-toothed, long-tailed alligators who love to listen to their music. But little do Miles and his band know what the alligators plan for them at the close of their jubilant all-night ball! Inspired by a traditional song, this vibrant picture book is "ebullient, fast-paced, and funny."

1985 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award for Illustration
A Reading Rainbow Featured Selection
Children's Books of 1984 (Library of Congress)