Not-So-Sweetie Pie is the third hilarious installment in the Weenie Featuring Frank and Beans graphic novel series by award-winning children’s author Maureen Fergus, with vibrant illustrations by Alexandra Bye. Perfectly pitched for early readers and fans of laugh-out-loud, character-driven comics like Narwhal and Jelly, this 56-page romp delivers equal parts silliness, chaos, and heart.
The story picks up where the last book left off: Weenie, a lovable but mischievous wiener dog with a big personality, is living his best life with his human Bob and his two animal friends — Frank the cat and Beans the guinea pig. But everything changes when Bob’s sister arrives with her new pup, Sweetie-Pie, a cuter, more exuberant dachshund who seems intent on stealing Weenie’s thunder. Sweetie-Pie pees on Weenie’s favorite things, snags his breakfast sausages, and generally tramples over his turf. Naturally, Weenie decides he must get rid of this canine invader — leading to all kinds of trouble and unintended hilarity.
What makes Not-So-Sweetie Pie unique is how it balances slapstick humor with relatable themes for its young audience. Jealousy, competition, and the fear of being replaced are explored through Weenie’s exaggerated reactions and over-the-top plans (including some very comical misadventures like a sausage-eating contest and even a hijacked truck). Despite the chaos, the story maintains a warm core: Weenie learns that friends — even new ones — don’t have to take anything away from what you already cherish. Readers giggle at the antics, but they also see a gentle message about navigating big feelings in a world that’s constantly changing.
Fergus’ writing is fast-paced, accessible, and genuinely funny. Each page is filled with witty dialogue and scenes that keep young readers engaged without ever feeling overwhelming — an ideal mix for those transitioning into longer graphic novels. https://www.maureenfergus.com/ We asked the author for her favourite recipe and she loved sharing her Butter Tart Slice found in our Recipe section!
Alexandra Bye’s illustrations are equally delightful, with expressive character designs and dynamic layouts that elevate the humor and help convey emotion in every panel. The art doesn’t just illustrate the text; it amplifies it, using quirky visual jokes and imaginative compositions that reward readers with laughs on every page turn. https://www.alexandrabye.com/
Parents and educators will appreciate how the book fosters reading confidence. The visual storytelling supports comprehension for early readers, while the humor keeps kids excited to continue. Even adults won’t mind being dragged into this one — the clever absurdity has enough charm to elicit chuckles at any age. In short, Not-So-Sweetie Pie is a worthy addition to the series and a must-have for young comic fans’ bookshelves. You can purchase the book at https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/740324/not-so-sweetie-pie-weenie-featuring-frank-and-beans-book-3-by-maureen-fergus-illustrated-by-alexandra-bye/9781774884904 or win a copy in our Giveaway section. A laugh-filled, heartwarming read that kids will return to again and again.
Contents and images used with permission by Penguin Kids, Penguin Random House. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/740324/not-so-sweetie-pie-weenie-featuring-frank-and-beans-book-3-by-maureen-fergus-illustrated-by-alexandra-bye/9781774884904