Wild Dog Books
September 2026
ISBN: 978174203681
RRP: $26.99
There was a time in history of more than one country, including our own of course, when inter-racial marriage was an absolute no and, in many of those places, punishable by law. But in a lighter vein, we have had a number of fictional examples of ‘mixed’ [inter-species] relationships e.g. The Muppets were always pretty groundbreaking with their take on this including, famously, Kermit and Miss Piggy, but they’re not alone.
Masterson Rat (infatuated and talking to Brooke Shields in the diner): “Is something wrong? Do you believe in interspecies dating?”
Brooke Shields: “Well, I’ve dated some rats before, if that’s what you mean.”
(Masterson Rat immediately faints) [The Muppets take Manhattan, 1984]
and also, Gonzo & Camilla the Chicken (because whatever Gonzo is, he’s definitely not a chicken!)
And in the town of Fluffington it’s strictly dog & dog, cat & cat, and more than that, it appears to be just as rigidly matched breeds until along comes Ginger & Fred who enter the dance floor with the same amount of scintillating dash and verve – and ‘mismatch’ as Johnny & Baby (Patrick Swayze/Jennifer Grey), Danny & Sandy (John Travolta/Olivia Newton-John) or Robert Irwin partnered with Witney Carson.
Not only do Ginger & Fred challenge the status quo but they absolutely mesmerise the crowds and, in the same spirit of Dirty Dancing, once the floodgates open, there’s no stopping it – everyone is ready to jump right in and throw convention to the wind.
It’s a lot of fun but will also be a great conversation starter, especially for slightly older children, on perceptions, judging of others due to differences, acceptance and ‘new’ attitudes. It’s a 4 💃🕺🪩🎶 from me for Smalls about Prep-3.
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