Let’s face it. While Joe and Jill Biden are fabulous new occupants of the White House, the new residents that are exciting the hearts and minds of animal lovers across the world are their two dogs: Champ and Major. Major is especially a celebration in light of the fact that he was a shelter dog that the Bidens fostered, then adopted before moving into the White House. A new picture book, “Champ and Major: First Dogs” by Joy McCullough and illustrated by Sheyda Abvabi Best celebrates these two four-legged Biden family members.

I love the fact that the book has an illustration of Biden walking Major out of the Delaware Humane Association with the adoption paperwork in his hands! Yes, even presidents adopt dogs from shelters! We also see that even presidential candidates have puppies who misbehave, although now such puppy-like deeds are in the past since Major is not a puppy. Or are they? I did see a video today of Biden signing something in the Oval Office, and yes, there were the (adorable) barks of two large German shepherds being heard in the background. There are wonderful videos that show the Bidens and their dogs outside on White House grounds walking and interacting with reporters.

The book shows some adorable scenes of the dogs racing through the White House with a bust of Abraham Lincoln looking on, and of the two pooches curled up on dog beds in the actual Oval Office while a busy presidential doggy dad is on the phone. As animal lovers know, dog lovers are usually people who can be trusted. Not always, but often. And we see in Joe Biden’s behavior with others, with children, with adults, with staff, and yes, with his two darling dogs, that he is, indeed, someone to be trusted with the most important job in our country — to be Champ and Major’s dad. Just kidding.

Children will love this picture book that shows us dogs are fabulous additions everywhere — even in the White House. It depicts the Bidens as caring and compassionate people and shows all kinds of White House staff interacting with the lucky dogs. It’s sure to be a hit with kids in the classroom, the library, or at home.

Please note: This review is based on the final, hardcover book provided by Dial Books for Young Readers, the publisher, for review purposes.