Are you ready to embark on a reading adventure with the most beloved canine crusader in children’s literature? Dav Pilkey’s “Dog Man” series has taken the world by storm, captivating young readers with its hilarious antics, engaging characters, and heartwarming stories. If you’re wondering where to start or looking to complete your collection, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the Dog Man books in order, ensuring you don’t miss a single heroic bark or witty punchline. Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of Dog Man, where good always triumphs over evil, and every page is packed with fun.
Unraveling the “Dog Man” Phenomenon
Before we dive into the reading order, let’s appreciate what makes the “Dog Man” series so special. Launched in 2016, the series features a police officer and his dog who are involved in an explosion, resulting in the officer having the head of the dog and the dog having the body of the officer. This unique premise sets the stage for a series filled with slapstick humor, creative storytelling, and surprisingly poignant messages about friendship, teamwork, and perseverance. Dav Pilkey, the mastermind behind the “Captain Underpants” series, brings his signature wit and art style to “Dog Man,” making it an irresistible read for kids aged 7-12. The books are known for their in-world comic strips, flip-o-ramas, and unconventional formats, which encourage reluctant readers and foster a love for reading. Exploring all the Dog Man books in order allows readers to follow the character’s evolution and experience the full comedic genius of Pilkey’s creation.
The Official “Dog Man” Series Reading Order
To truly appreciate the saga of Dog Man, it’s best to read the books in the order they were released. This allows you to follow the character’s growth, understand recurring jokes, and witness the unfolding of his epic adventures. Here is the complete list of the main “Dog Man” series, presented in chronological order to help you navigate the heroic journey:
1. Dog Man (2016)
The adventure begins when a police officer and his dog are injured and undergo a life-saving operation. The result? A head and body that are half-dog, half-man! Dog Man is born, ready to protect the city from a new breed of villain. This inaugural book introduces us to the beloved characters and sets the tone for the hilarious escapades to come. It’s the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to read all the Dog Man books in order.
2. Dog Man Unleashed (2017)
In this thrilling sequel, Dog Man faces off against his familiar foe, Petey the Cat, who has a new scheme brewing. Petey is determined to cause chaos, but Dog Man is always on patrol, ready to save the day with his unique brand of justice. This installment deepens the dynamic between Dog Man and Petey, offering more laughs and action.
3. Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties (2017)
Things get purr-fectly chaotic when Petey the Cat escapes from jail and teams up with a new villain, Flippy the Fish. Meanwhile, a new character, Li’l Petey, enters the scene, bringing a different perspective and challenging Dog Man’s understanding of good and evil. This book explores themes of family and belonging, adding emotional depth to the series. It’s a crucial part of the Dog Man books all in order reading experience.
4. Dog Man and the Lord of the Fleas (2018)
The city is under siege by a swarm of mysterious, technologically advanced fleas, controlled by the formidable Lord of the Fleas. Dog Man must join forces with his pals, including a new character named 80-HD, a robot dog, to save the day. This book is packed with futuristic gadgets, daring rescues, and, of course, plenty of Dog Man’s signature bravery.
5. Dog Man: Brawl and the Outlaw (2019)
A shocking twist sends Dog Man to jail, where he meets a new cellmate named “80-HD.” However, chaos erupts when an old enemy, the villainous Piggy, escapes and teams up with a slippery alligator. Dog Man must find a way to clear his name and stop their nefarious plans. This book tests Dog Man’s resolve and his commitment to justice.
6. Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls (2019)
Inspired by Shakespeare’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” this installment sees Dog Man dealing with a new challenge: a seemingly harmless toy named “Big Jim” who turns out to be a manipulative force. Dog Man and his friends must uncover the truth and save their town from Big Jim’s scheme. The book cleverly incorporates elements of classic literature into its fun-filled narrative.
7. Dog Man: Grime and Punishment (2020)
When a terrible villain named Prof. Pig brings a giant robot to wreak havoc, Dog Man faces his toughest challenge yet. Prof. Pig’s nefarious plan involves manipulating everyone’s fears, and Dog Man must confront his own to save the city. This story delves into the power of empathy and understanding, even towards one’s enemies.
8. Dog Man: Mothering Heights (2021)
A new villain, Petey’s robot mom, arrives on the scene, creating a technological mess that only Dog Man can clean up. With the help of his trusty companions, Dog Man must stop this robotic menace before it’s too late. This book explores themes of family, creation, and the unexpected bonds that form.
9. Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea (2023)
In this underwater adventure, Dog Man and his pals dive deep into the ocean to stop Petey the Cat and his new accomplice, a villain named King K. Rex, from polluting the sea. They encounter a host of new characters and face challenges that test their bravery and ingenuity.
10. Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder (2023)
The latest installment brings a new villain, Molly, who has a vendetta against Dog Man. She’s determined to get revenge, and Dog Man must use all his skills and courage to protect the city. This book is full of action, humor, and the heartwarming messages that fans have come to expect from the series.
Exploring the “Dog Man” Universe: Spin-offs and Companion Books
Beyond the main series, Dav Pilkey has expanded the “Dog Man” universe with engaging spin-offs and companion books that offer even more adventures and insights into the characters’ lives. These are excellent additions for fans who want to delve deeper and collect all the Dog Man books.
1. The Adventures of Super Diaper Baby (2002)
This is one of Dav Pilkey’s earliest works, predating the “Dog Man” series but featuring a similar brand of humor and visual style. It introduces a baby superhero who fights crime, offering a glimpse into Pilkey’s creative genius that would later blossom in the “Dog Man” universe. While not directly part of the Dog Man storyline, it’s a fun read for fans of Pilkey’s work.
2. The Official Dog Man Coloring Book (2017)
For a more interactive experience, this coloring book allows young artists to bring their favorite characters to life with their own colors. It’s a great way for kids to engage with the series creatively and offers a relaxing break between reading all the Dog Man books.
3. The Dog Man, Volume 1: Fetch-a-Life! (2019)
This compilation collects the first three books of the main “Dog Man” series: “Dog Man,” “Dog Man Unleashed,” and “Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties.” It’s an excellent value for new readers looking to jump into the series or for seasoned fans who want a convenient way to own the early adventures.
4. The Dog Man, Volume 2: A Trio of Tricky Tales (2020)
Following the success of the first volume, this compilation brings together “Dog Man and the Lord of the Fleas,” “Dog Man: Brawl and the Outlaw,” and “Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls.” It continues the trend of offering a cost-effective and accessible way to enjoy multiple Dog Man stories.
5. Cat Kid Comic Club Series (2021-Present)
This spin-off series, also by Dav Pilkey, follows Li’l Petey as he teaches a group of quirky foster kittens how to create their own comics. The series emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and the joy of storytelling. It’s a wonderful companion to the main “Dog Man” books and showcases Pilkey’s dedication to fostering creativity in young readers. The books in this series include “Cat Kid Comic Club,” “Cat Kid Comic Club and the Rainfall,” “Cat Kid Comic Club and the Claw Battle,” and “Cat Kid Comic Club: Dancing in the Moonlight.”
How to Get the Most Out of Your “Dog Man” Reading Journey
Whether you’re a child discovering Dog Man for the first time or an adult revisiting these beloved books, there are ways to enhance your reading experience.
- Read Aloud: The humor and wordplay in the “Dog Man” series are perfect for reading aloud. It’s a fantastic way to bond with younger readers and enjoy the comedic timing of Dav Pilkey’s writing.
- Create Your Own Comics: Inspired by the in-world comics and the “Cat Kid Comic Club” series, encourage aspiring artists to create their own superhero stories. This fosters creativity and reinforces the themes of the books.
- Discuss the Themes: Beyond the laughter, the “Dog Man” books touch upon important themes like friendship, empathy, overcoming challenges, and the importance of being true to oneself. Discussing these topics can add depth to the reading experience.
- Join the Community: Share your love for Dog Man online, participate in book discussions, or visit local libraries and bookstores for related events. Connecting with other fans can make the reading journey even more enjoyable.
The “Dog Man” series offers a delightful escape into a world of humor, action, and heart. By following this guide to all the Dog Man books in order, you can ensure you experience every heroic leap and every villainous plot twist exactly as Dav Pilkey intended. So grab your favorite comfy spot, prepare for a cascade of chuckles, and get ready to meet the world’s most wonderful canine crimefighter. The adventures of Dog Man await!
