
Reach for this book when your child is feeling discouraged by their own clumsiness or when their 'big' attempts to help result in unintended messes. It is a gentle balm for the perfectionist child who fears that their mistakes might disappoint those they love. The story follows Emily Elizabeth as she attempts to train Clifford to do tricks for a local contest. Because of Clifford's massive size, every standard trick (like fetching or jumping) ends in a hilarious but destructive disaster. Despite the chaos, the emotional core of the book remains centered on the unwavering bond between a girl and her dog. It is an ideal choice for preschoolers and early elementary students, offering a humorous perspective on resilience and the idea that being yourself is more important than being perfect.
The book is entirely secular and lighthearted. It deals with the feeling of 'failure' in a metaphorical sense through Clifford's physical size. The resolution is hopeful and focuses on acceptance.





















Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewA 4-year-old who recently got in trouble for accidentally breaking something while trying to help, or a child who feels 'too big' or 'too much' in social settings.
This is a safe 'read cold' book. Parents may want to emphasize that Emily Elizabeth is never angry with Clifford, which reinforces the message of unconditional love. A parent might reach for this after seeing their child cry over a ruined drawing or a spilled glass of milk, or if the child says, 'I can't do anything right.'
Toddlers will enjoy the slapstick visual humor of the giant dog. Older children (6-7) will recognize the social pressure of the 'contest' and empathize with Clifford's desire to perform well.
Unlike many 'training' books, Clifford never actually masters the traditional tricks. The 'win' isn't about getting it right; it's about being loved while getting it wrong.
Emily Elizabeth wants to show off Clifford's skills at a dog contest. They practice several tricks, but Clifford's size makes each attempt go wrong: he brings back a whole tree instead of a stick, and his attempts to sit or play dead cause local chaos. Ultimately, his unique traits are what make him special, regardless of traditional 'tricks.'
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.