Christopher returns in this sixth picture-book chronicling his outdoor adventures, this time confronting the issue of his dog Ben's fascination with a porcupine. When Ben gets a muzzle full of quills one night, the boy wonders how he can safeguard his pet. He feels that it would be cruel to keep him locked up, and his father tells him they can't do anything to the porcupine, because it is a wild creature, and was only protecting itself. The next night, Christopher leaves an offering for the porcupine, hoping it will keep the quilled creature far from their yard, and Ben's protective watch...

Published in 1981, Ben and the Porcupine addresses an experience - having an indoor/outdoor dog - that many contemporary children, particularly those living in urban or suburban environments, will find unfamiliar. That said, the issue of finding a balance between the needs of one's pets and that of local wildlife, is one that has significance for people everywhere. I liked the solution that Ben found, although one wonders whether it would continue to work, in the long run. Donald Carrick's accompanying illustrations here are somewhat dark, given the many night scenes, but are appealing all the same. Recommended to those who have read and enjoyed other stories about Christopher, and to readers who enjoy vintage picture-books. ( )