George and Harold channel their creativity by creating their hugely successful comic book Dog Man; this forms the frame of the novel’s action. George and Harold’s success is clear in the panel depicting a copy of the publication The Daily News, which is emblazoned with the front cover story: “Mall is popular again thanks to juveniles’ comics!!!” (8). Panel illustrations depict a long line of excited people queuing up to buy a copy of Dog Man; the crowds spill out of the mall’s front doors. It is clear that George and Harold’s silly sense of humor and creative prowess bring them acclaim, a significant income, and entertainment for many.

Pilkey’s Dog Man: Grime and Punishment aims to tap into elementary-aged silliness and creativity through humor and colloquial language, as well as ridiculous and outlandish concepts, such as a half-dog, half-man police officer. Furthermore, the simplistic illustrations and imperfect, messy panel lines aim to make readers feel as if they are actually flicking through George and Harold’s comic.

Creativity and silliness are embodied by the characters within the Dog Man world. When Grampa is introduced, he is in prison working on Motor Brain. This invention, which causes him to turn into the supervillain Crud, initiates much of the story’s action.