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Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
Genre: Comics / Humor / Family

Book Review:
Dennis the Menace... a bully? It seems impossible, but Hank Ketcham's beloved character shows his stubborn side in ''The Little Bully,'' a hilarious collection of comic strips exploring what happens when Dennis doesn't get his way.

Let's be clear: Dennis isn't really a bully. He's a normal five-year-old boy who sometimes wants what he wants when he wants it. And when he doesn't get it, or when someone crosses him, his inner ''little bully'' emerges. These comics capture those moments with Ketcham's trademark humor and insight.

Watch as Dennis stubbornly refuses to eat his vegetables—with escalating consequences. See him demand a toy at the store with increasing determination. Observe his battles of will with Mr. Wilson, who somehow always ends up on the losing side. These are universal childhood moments, captured perfectly.

What makes this collection so enjoyable is its honesty. Children aren't always angels. They have moments of stubbornness, of demandingness, of pure determination to get what they want. Ketcham doesn't judge Dennis for these moments; he simply observes them with humor and affection.

Alice and Henry, Dennis's parents, are shown dealing with these challenging moments with varying degrees of patience and success. Their parenting struggles are both funny and relatable. Mr. Wilson, as always, is the frequent victim of Dennis's determination, and his reactions are priceless.

Ketcham's artwork is simple but brilliantly expressive. Dennis's determined expression, his parents' weary resignation, and Mr. Wilson's horrified realization are all captured perfectly.

This collection is part of a series that includes other Dennis adventures like ''Taking The Lead,'' ''Upside Down,'' ''Gettin' Dizzy,'' and many more.

''Dennis the Menace: The Little Bully'' is perfect for readers aged 7 and up, as well as adults who appreciate classic comic humor. It's a funny, honest look at childhood behavior that will make parents nod in recognition and children laugh in delight. Highly recommended.