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Dog Man - Big Jim Begins

By Dav Pilkey

Book 13 of 14 in the Dog Man series

When Space Cuties threaten the city, will Dog Man’s surprising past change everything?

exciting humorous heartwarming

Pageticker community rating

Average score: 4.77

From 136 readers

What do our readers think of Dog Man - Big Jim Begins? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy the silly humour, exciting action and chance to learn more about Big Jim and the other characters. Some children find it less satisfying because Dog Man is not at the centre of the story as much as in the earlier books.

What does the Pageticker team say about Dog Man - Big Jim Begins?

Dav Pilkey gives Big Jim the spotlight in this lively thirteenth Dog Man adventure, mixing superhero mayhem with a surprisingly warm story about kindness, courage and being misunderstood. The familiar visual gags and comic-book chaos are all present, although readers expecting Dog Man to lead every scene may find this origin story a little different. A funny, fast-moving choice for fans of graphic novels and anyone who enjoys their heroic adventures with a generous helping of silliness.

Genres

Animals Humour Adventure

What is Dog Man - Big Jim Begins about?

In 'Dog Man: Big Jim Begins', uncover the origins of our cherished characters as they unite to thwart the Space Cuties' plan to destroy the city. Will Dog Man and his friends' pasts shape their futures? Can courage and kindness triumph? Is believing enough to make the impossible happen? Prepare for another unforgettable adventure in this globally bestselling series by acclaimed graphic novelist Dav Pilkey.

About the author

Dav Pilkey is a much-loved author and illustrator from the United States. He is best known for creating the hilarious 'Captain Underpants' and 'Dog Man' books. Dav enjoys making stories that make children laugh and inspire them to be creative. His books are full of fun adventures and silly characters that many children enjoy reading.

Discussion ideas around Dog Man - Big Jim Begins

Big Jim’s character: Big Jim is playful, kind and often misunderstood. Which of his qualities make him a hero, and how does he show them?

Past and future: The characters’ pasts help shape what happens next. How can knowing someone’s history change the way we judge their choices?

Courage and kindness: Which moments suggest that kindness can be a powerful kind of courage, and when might kindness be difficult to show?

Believing in the impossible: The story asks whether believing is enough to make the impossible happen. What else might someone need besides belief?

Working together: How do Dog Man and his friends use their different strengths to face the Space Cuties, and what can this teach us about teamwork?

Pages

224 pages

Reading age

Junior (8-13)

This edition

2025

First published

2016

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