Mazy is a famous movie star who has her fur fluffed twice a day. While other dogs chase sticks at the park, Mazy chases her acting dreams. Then one morning, Mazy’s agent delivers bad news: Hollywoof has changed and there are no jobs for Mazy anymore. Can Mazy embrace what it is that makes her special and find her perfect role?
Isla Fisher has worked in TV and film for more than 25 years. While she’s played many fun and different characters, she loves making up stories at bedtime for her three children, inspiring her foray into writing. Fisher’s children’s fiction series Marge in Charge was a bestseller in Australia and the UK, and now she returns with Mazy the Movie Star, her first picture book.
Mazy the Movie Star is a story told in Fisher’s original comedic voice. It’s a courageous tale about having the confidence to be yourself – set in Hollywoof, a version of Hollywood populated entirely by dogs. This message resonates loud and clear at the turn of each page, perfectly complemented by Paula Bowles’ illustrations. From the Hoolywoof sign and a Mocha Pupachino to a vivid dog park, Bowles’ illustrations help to vibrantly bring Mazy’s story to life, showing how her extravagant lifestyle crumbles and is then gratifyingly revived.
We’re first introduced to a materialistic Mazy whose lavish lifestyle consists of successful movie deals, getting her paw-nails painted pink and sipping on Starbarks. But when she faces rejection from canine movie hits including Star Paws and Mary Puppins, her superstar lifestyle and status derails.
Feeling sad and lost, Mazy stumbles upon a group of dogs who help her overcome her acting obstacles. Throughout the process she discovers genuine connections, seeing how fulfilling it is to place importance on feelings and friendships rather than a lifestyle that left her feeling empty on the inside. Leaving her old life behind and trying something new, she finds success in both life and show-biz.
Filled to the brim with canine puns and humour, Mazy the Movie Star is a picture book that children of all ages can benefit from with its themes of hope, trust and self-belief. I recommend it for children aged 3+ and any young reader who loves dogs!
Watch Isla Fisher’s storytime reading of Mazy the Movie Star here.
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