A lonely dog wanders off in search of friendship in this unassuming take on a well-worn but ever-green theme. The theme isn"t all that"s green, as Krischanitz"s stubby-legged pooch is a study in chartreuse, but kids are more likely to find little Buddy"s appealing shyness more noticeable than his hue. Several animals--a big dog, some sheep, and a trio of cats, among others--who regard Buddy with off-putting suspicion on his first pass become instant friends after he meets a friendly fox (colored a dark, brilliant red), who takes him back over his route to break the conversational ice in the final spread, all are seen cavorting together in a grassy field. The terse text has a repetitive, cumulative structure youngsters will find this a sunnier, more predictable alternative to Eric Carle"s Do You Want to Be My Friend?