Book Description

Reviews (8)

Let's explore the plotline...
Patterned after the storyline of "King Kong", of course, this tale involves a cat being kidnapped from his home, tied up in a burlap sack, and placed on display in irons in Mousopolis. After Kat Kong escapes he climbs up a tall building and is lured to fall to his death by a mouse in an airplane. Throughout the story the cat is made to look ferocious and evil, while the mice, who have engaged in kidnapping and who are responsible for the cat's death, are made to look cute and innocent.
As the primary caregiver of 2 adopted cats, I find the story a bit disturbing, and children might find it disturbing too. The notion that children reading this story might be inspired to torment cats also disturbs me.
I gave it 2 stars because despite my objections to the plotline, I still thought the artwork and prose were good.
If you like this type of story and want to read it to a child, "Dogzilla" is the better choice since in his story, the dog is not kidnapped and murdered.

Dav Pilkey has done it again!
This book is funny, including that is has adaptation with "King Kong." Kat Kong is funny, that it should be good as a movie. I give this funny story 5 out of 5.

Kat Kong Rocks
Kat Kong has interesting pictures that match the story. This book captures young children's attention and keeps it. This book has a great story. It is an imagninative story that I find amusing. A group of mice travel to the island of Kat Kong. There they find Kat Kong unconscious and they take him back to their city and put him on display. Find out what happens to Kat Kong when you read Kat Kong by Dav Pilkey.

KAT KONG is gianormous!
A spoof of the story of King Kong, with cat & mice characters.

Starring Flash as Professor Vincent Varmint, Rabies as Rosie Rodent, Dwayne as Captain Charles Limburger & introducing Blueberry as the Monster this big book, a mixture of photographic collages & liberal acrylic paint daubings, tells the story of fearless mice who set sail for a strange island.

This book as been rated TS - terribly silly & some material may be too silly for grown-ups. I loved the ton of puns & silly fun. Our librarians say this book is rarely on the shelf - so popular is it with children & adults alike. Great family reading!

Purr-fect reading for all ages!
This is an excellent book to share with children - especially those with a well-developed sense of humor. The jokes, illustrations, and play on words will appeal to all ages. As a teacher, I read this book to 2nd graders and then ask them to draw what Kat Kong saw in the package. The ideas start flying. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone! ... Read more

Book Description

Elsa Beskow’s picture books for children have been known and loved for over a century. This new addition to the Peter and Lotta series is published in English for the first time.

When Peter and Lotta give away one of their kittens, they find themselves having a day full of adventures, including the excitement of going to a fair. But will they manage to get home safely? (Ages 5–8) ... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in full color. When Chin Yu Min's wealthy husband drowns, her life of

idleness comes to an end--until she meets a mysterious ginger cat fishing with

his long tail. Striking illustrations complement this original folktale of a

haughty widow whose life is transformed by friendship. "Recommended not only

for general picture book collections, but also for special collections aimed at

older readers and promoted through read-alouds and storytelling."--Booklist.




... Read more

Reviews (8)

It's about treating people with repect
I was sorry to hear that other readers found this book to be about making the rich evil. I did not find that at all. The moral of the story is about treating others with respect. It's about appreciating what is around you and not taking those in your life for granted. It's a wonderful book with beautiful illustrations.

Typical "rich is evil" stereotype.
This book promotes the stereotype that the being rich automatically makes you evil. The main character Chin Yu Min, is the wife of a wealthy man, who believes she is better than everyone else in her village (as all rich people do). And like all evil rich people, Chin needs to be taught a lesson on the real value of friendship and humility.

Not for parents who want to teach their children that achieving a high level of financial success is not a bad thing.

A Delight For Children Of Any Age
Chin Yu Min And The Ginger Cat, written by Jennifer Armstrong and Illustrated by Mary Grandpre, is yet another fine example of Mary Grandpre's brilliance as an illustrator. Mary Grandpre's paintings linger in the imagination long after the pages have been turned. Jennifer Armstrong does a fine job of adapting a Chinese folktale. Chin Yu Min is the wife of a wealthy man. Chin believes this puts her above everyone in her village. Chin is imperious, haughty and snobbish. When Chin's husband drowns and she runs out of money, Chin refuses the kind offerings of help from the other villagers. One day Chin meets a mysterious cat at the fishing docks who helps return Chin to her previous financial status. It is only when Chin loses the cat that she learns the real value of friendship and humility. Chin Yu Min and the Ginger Cat is delight for children of any age.

Preston McClear...

The art is enough to buy this book!
I am a professional illustrator and got to see Mary Grandpre do a demonstration of her work when in art college. This book is a perfect example of what a very talented artist is capable of. Her use of color and composition make this book a joy to behold!

Beautiful Illustrations
This is a beautifully illustrated book. We purchased this book to build the library of our soon to be adopted daughter from China.

This book has a moral to the story, however young children may have a difficult time capturing the essence. The story in itself is wonderful and will captivate a young audience. ... Read more

Book Description

Mesopotamium Blue cat, Varjak Paw, has never been Outside before; he and his family have always lived in the isolated house at the top of the hill. But Varjak is forced out into the city when the sinister Gentleman and his two menacing cats take over his home. With help from his mystical ancestor, Jalal, Varjak manages to overcome challenges such as self-survival and a threat from the gangland cats, and he ultimately discovers the terrifying secrets behind the Vanishings. But can he save his own family from their fate?

With wonderful integrated illustrations from acclaimed comic book artist Dave McKean, this book will appeal to all ages. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

It's a cat's life
Enticed by the wonderful Dave McKean illustrations, I bought this even though it's a children's book. I love it! "Varjak Paw" is one of those crossover works which is sure to be a hit with young and old. I sense a cult classic in-the-making here. My only criticism is, I felt the ending was ever so slightly anti-climactic. Nevertheless, it's thought-provoking and highly imaginative, boasting a rich array of characters; some endearing, some scary - all memorable. It's also original, even if the 'hero having to learn and grow to find himself' theme is not. This book will stand up to repeat readings, which is important for young readers. You don't have to like cats to enjoy it, though you may look at them in a different way after reading "Varjak Paw".

What I would love now? For Pixar Productions, the makers of 'Finding Nemo', to make "Varjak" into a fabulous film.

Excellent read-aloud for children 7 and up.
You don't have to love cats to love this book. Having read hundreds of books over the course of the year, my sons (7 and 8 1/2 years old) and I give Varjak Paw our "Book of the Year" award. We love it! It's supenseful. It's passionate. It has a fundamental message that everyone needs to hear: It's not your "pedigree" but rather your conduct that makes you valuable.

Cat karate kicks tail
Varjak Paw is the youngest cat in a cat family who want to sit and do nothing - they lack curiosity. His grandfather begins to tell him about the Way of Jalal, the cat martial art his ancestor invented, but Varjak is forced into the streets by strange intruders. He must make his way back to his family to defend both them and the other cats of the city using the Way of Jalal, which is taught to him by a cat master in his dreams.

This is a wonderful book, enhanced by vivid, stylised illustrations by Dave McKean, known for working with Neil Gaiman. There isn't any excessive cuteness, and the Horrible Fate menacing the cats is chilling. The illustrations in the middle of the pigeons in Trafalgar Square have real google-eyed pigeon personality. The writing is simple, not kids-book dumbed-down, and on the few occasions it doesn't meet its usual quality the illustrations carry it. Whether you're looking for a good young adult book, a good story, a 1st-class, non-sentimental cat book, or a tribute to kung fu flicks, this is an answer. Buy it, Little Grasshopper.

Varjak Paw
This is one of the best books ever! It is just as good as Harry Potter! If you like this book then you should buy Warriors by Erin Hunter. I give this a two thubs up!

Very interesting book
This is a book about an indoor cat, named Varjak Paw, one of the youngest of his family. Then the person that has been his family's owner for generations dies and a man with two very strange black cats appears. Elder Paw, the oldest in the family, tells Varjak about the Way of Jalal, but much of it has been lost through the ages. Jalal is his ancestor who traveled from Mesopotamia to the Contessa's house (where they live now). Varjak sets out to the city to find a "dog" to help them. In his dreams he is taught by Jalal "the Way". In the city he makes new friends and new enemies. I don't want to give any more away so you'll have to read the book to find out the ending. The ending is very surprising. ... Read more

Book Description

Cats are fascinating, complex creatures. Since cats were first tamed about 5,000 years ago, they have enchanted people with their elegant beauty and mysterious manner. But cats can also be playful and cuddly pets, death-defying acrobats, or ruthless hunters. Come along as celebrated science writer Seymour Simon explores the many faces of this beloved animal with striking full-color photographs and engaging prose.

Reviews (13)

Gorgeous Art
As usual, Jan Brett's art is much better than the story.
But gosh, the drawings of shells and different scenes---you know the main scene thing she does, then the side scene about other things that are going on simultaneously, is awesome.
The characters are all dogs and cats, which children love. The kids will love the art and so will you.
Comet loses his eight of his lives quickly, but Hurricane Elmadore washes him at the feet of the lighthouse cat. He chooses to spend his ninth with her. Thats the cutest part of the story.

Awesome, beautiful, children, and cat lover's story book.
I love this book! Our cat is also named "Comet", but I would have loved it anyway. Comet lives on Nantucket Island and loses one life after another in this scary world ruled by dogs. Finally, when on her last life, she discovers a lighthouse where a lonely cat is waiting for a friend, and knows she is home. The illustrations are just incredibly beautiful. If you love the sea, lighthouses, and cats, you will love this book!

Enthralling for kids
Kids just love this page-turner. The illustrations are typical for Brett, and the story flows as Comet has one mishap after another till he learns the important lesson at the end. Another one with numerous requests for repeats from the kids. A keeper.

Cool cat
It is a cool cat because how the cat loses eigh lives.All the time before she finds her home.It is a must read book.

A little macabre
Sorry to disagree with the rest of the positive reviews but I was a bit disturbed that the cat kept dying over and over again in this book. Maybe I should have expected such based on the title, but I found it unsettling nonetheless. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (6)

Wonderfully funny book!
I loved this book. It's quite funny -- the humour in it is actually pretty dry, so I think it would be best for kids grades 3 and up, possibly grades 2 and up....
Very very enjoyable. I still smile just thinking about it.
First learned about the book by seeing/hearing it being read aloud by Elijah Wood at the Screen Actor's Guild (SAG) Literacy Project website. He's my favorite actor, and the streaming video at that site is great. It made me want to buy the book. Funny for adults as well, especially cat lovers!!

an enjoyable book
Though i have not read this book,i have watched the video from the SAG bookpals online site.It was read by Elijah Wood,my favorite actor.It was an enjoyable book,great for little kids.

...

The Cat's Meow!
This book is a delight! Wonderful quirky illustrations! Very imaginative and funny! All the more enjoyable if you actually have a cat (but fun for Dog Lover's too!)

Dazed and confused
Satoshi Kitamura is the Kazuo Ishiguro of the under-5 set. "ME and my Cat" is of my daughter's favorite books, and she's a serious fan of Kitamura's oeuvre. A great book when they've outgrown "Duck Is Dirty" and other board books.

Funny, crazy and interesting.
Me and My Cat is a funny story. Satotoshi Kitamura is a good author to write books for children like this one, "Sheep in Wolves`Clothes" and "Dog is Thirsty." I like to read these stories. ... Read more

Book Description

A Single Shot

Ned fired the forbidden rifle just once, at a flickering shadow in the autumn moonlight. But someone -- a face, fleetingly seen staring at him from an attic window -- was watching.

And when a one-eyed cat turns up at an elderly neighbor's woodshed, Ned is caught in a web of guilt, fear, and shame that he cannot escape -- until another moonlit night, come spring, brings redemption and surprising revelations. ... Read more

Reviews (32)

One-Eyed Cat
One day, while browsing through some books, I came across a book called the One-Eyed Cat by Paula Fox. What caught my attention was that I noticed a picture of a cat on the cover. My brother read this book and highly recommended it to me because he knows I enjoy reading books about cats. I read the back of the book and it sounded interesting to me. This book was also a Newbery Honor Book. These are some reasons why I selected this book to read.
The main character in this book is a boy named, Ned Wallis. On Ned's eleventh birthday his uncle gave him a rifle. Ned's parents took the gun away from him and were going to give it back to him when he turns fourteen years old. Ned's mom is very ill in the beginning of the story. One night Ned gets the gun and goes outside. He tries out his new gun by shooting a shadow in the fog. Then he sees a cat with only one eye. Ned begins to feal guilty, because he thinks that he shot the cat. He finally confessed that he shot the cat and his parents forgived him for shooting the cat.
I like the book a lot. The book is so detailed that it gives me mental pictures in my mind. The other books I've read usually aren't that descriptive. This book is also very specific because it gives dates and ages. The author kept my attention throughout the book. This book is great!

One- Eyed Cat
The book One-eyed Cat by Paula Fox is is about a boy named Ned. He gets a gun for his 11th birthday. Ned's dad says that Ned is not old enough to have a gun. He hides the gun in the attic. One night Ned decides that he just has to shoot the gun. He goes up to the attic and sneaks the gun out side. All of the sudden, he sees a shadow, he presses the trigger and fires the gun. After a long time he is helping an old neighbor and he sees a cat with only one eye. Ned is sure that he shot the cat and that is why it only has one eye. Will Ned ever tell anybody so that the guilt won't be so bad? Read the book One-Eyed Cat to find out. This was an okay book.

No Justice for the Cat
One-Eyed Cat is a strong and compelling story up until the end when protagonist confesses his guilt. His parents let him off too easily giving the impression that it's okay after all to shoot wild or stray animals.

One-Eyed Cat
One-Eyed Cat was a worthy book to read. It was the kind of book that you just can't put down after the first chapter.
Ned Wallis lived with his family near the Hudson River in Tyler, New York, in 1935. Ned was a very kind and sweet boy. He almost never spoke back to his parents, except once. Reverend James Wallis, Ned's papa, as Ned called him, was about as impeccable as you can get. Ned's mama was an ill woman who was suffering from a terrible disease that caused her hands and fingers to get horribly twisted in knots. Ned had a housekeeper, Mrs. Scallop, that Ned, his mama, and his papa
disliked. She was very cruel when it came to her cooking and cleaning. Ned also had two neighbors, Mrs. Kimball and Mrs. Scully. Mrs. Kimball helped Mrs. Wallis with her sickness, often visiting their house. Mrs. Kimball had over five children. Ned thought that her children were like a bunch of wild monkeys running around her house. At eighty years old, Mr. Scully was very feeble. Ned would help Mr. Scully, after school, with chores that he did for him around his house. After a while Ned and Mr. Scully became very good friends. Ned thought his Uncle Hilary was the greatest in the world. He traveled to whereever you could imagine. He frequently sent back presents to Ned of the places he visited.
It was almost Ned's eleventh birthday and Ned was very excited since his uncle had come home to celebrate it with him. Uncle Hilary told Ned to open the present he had brought him. After slowly and carefully unraveling the wrapping paper, Ned was surprised to find that it was a gun.
Ned's father, as being the Reverend, did not agree at all with the gun idea. Ned's father concluded as saying, "Ned, there is nothing to imagine with a gun except something that was dead." Then he took the gun upstairs, Ned watching him in the process, placed it in the attic. That night, Ned's father told him that he trusted him entirely not to touch the gun. Ned stayed up all night, thinking about how that gun felt in his arms after he unwrapped it. Such power and control he had in himself when he held it. He couldn't help himself from going upstairs, in the attic, and get the gun for himself. He took his shoes off, as not to make any noise, and tip-toed to the attic. When he got there the light reflecting from the moon shone on the beautiful gun. Ned grabbed the gun quickly and quietly stepped out the door of his house.
At last, he was free with the gun by his side all alone. Then, he aimed it at a shadow in the woods that looked alive to him. He knew that he wasn't going to shoot anything. But, all of the sudden, accidently, his sweating wet fingers slipped on the trigger of the gun and hit that shadow in the woods. Ned turned back, looking up at the house and in one of the windows of the house was someone staring at him, seeing everything that Ned had done! Ned looked as hard and as close in the window as he could, but he couldn't tell who it was looking at him. Could it have been Mama, who could hardly stand, or was it mean Mrs. Scallop? It also could have been Papa.
Ned went along as if it never happened, even that he knew that it did. Everyday after school Ned would walk to Mr. Scully's house to help him. Then one day while he was there, Mr. Scully pointed out a strange cat. Ned looked at it closer and noticed that it only had one eye and must have been struggling to live. It had blood around the rim of his empty eye socket. Ned went home that night crying, knowing that must have been the shadow that he hit with his gun that dark night. But, was it really the cat that he hit or nothing at all?
In conclusion, I thought that Mrs. Paula Fox made a beautiful choice in publishing One-Eyed Cat. If she never had, then I would have never been able to read such and interesting and suspenseful book. Hopefully, this book has made others more aware that seemingly harmless actions could cause devastating results.

One- eyed Cat
One-eyed cat was, I have to say was the summit compared to all the other books I have read.It was the kind of book that you can't just put down after one chapter, even though I idmit I may have put it down a couple times.
Ned Wallis lived with his family near the Hudson river in Tyler, N.Y. in 1935. Ned was a very kind and sweet boy, he never talked back to his parents, except once. Reverend James Wallis, Ned's papa, as Ned called him, was about as impeccable as you can get. Ned's mama was an ill woman, she suffered from a disease. The disease caused her hands and fingers to get horribly twisted in knots. Ned also had a housekeeper, Mrs. Scallop. Ned, his mama, and his papa, very much disliked Mrs. Scallop, she was very cruel when it came to her cooking and cleaning. Ned had two neighbors,Mrs. Kimball and Mr.Scully. Mrs. Kimball helped Mrs. Wallis with her sickness, she often visited their house. Mrs. Kimball had over five children. It seemed to Ned as if her children were a bunch of wild monkeys running around her house. Mr. Scully was an extremely feeble man at eighty years old. Ned would help Mr. Scully, after school, with chores that he did for him around his house. After a while, Ned and Mr. Scully became very good friends. Then, of course, there was Ned's uncle, Uncle Hilary. Uncle Hilary, Ned thought was the greatest uncle in the world. He travelled to wherever you could imagine. He frequently sent back presents to Ned of the places he visited. He once sent him back a bronze goat from Greece, that Ned could easily fit inside the palm of his hand.
It was almost Ned's eleventh birthday. Ned was the most excited he ever could have been because Uncle Hilary had come home that day for it!! Ned was very excited, Uncle Hilary said that he could open his present form him!! Except the present that Ned was about to open was very much different than the other ones Ned's uncle had given him. After slowly and carefully unraveling the wrapping paper, what seemed to come out of the paper was, a gun. Ned's father, as being the Reverend did not agree at all with the gun idea. Reverend Wallis talked to Uncle Hilary and told him that he disagreed. Ned's father concluded as saying, "Ned, there is nothing to imagine with a gun except something that was dead." Then he took the gun upstairs, Ned watching him in the process, and placed it in the attic. That night Ned's father told Ned that he trusted him entirely not to touch the gun. Ned stayed up all night, he couldn't stop thinking about how that gun felt in his arms after he unwrapped it. Such power and control he had in himself when he held it. He couldn't help himself, but to go upstairs, in the attic, and get the gun for himself. He took his shoes off so he wouldn't make any noise and he tip-toed to the attic. When he got there he was stucken by light reflecting from the moon, that shone on the beautiful gun. Ned grabbed the gun quickly and quietly stepped out the door to his house. At last, he was free with the gun by his side all alone. Then, he aimed it towards a shadow in the woods, the shadow looked alive to him, but he knew that he wasn't going to shoot anything anyway. All of the sudden, accidently, his sweating, wet fingers slipped on the trigger to the gun and it hit that shadow in the woods. Ned turned back, looking up at the house and in one of the windows to his house, there was someone staring down at him, seeing everything that Ned had done! Ned looked as hard and as close in the window as he could, but he couldn't tell who it was looking at him. Ned studied it later. Could it have been his mama, that can hardly even stand or was it mean Mrs.Scallop. It also could have been his papa.
Ned went along with it as if it never happened, even though he knew that it did. Everyday after school Ned would walk to Mr. Scully's house to help him. Then one day while he was there, Mr. Scully pointed out a strange cat. Ned looked at it closer and noticed that it only had one eye and must have been stuggling to live. It had blood around the rim of his empty eye. Ned went home that night crying, knowing that that must have been the shadow that he hit with the gun that dark night. But, was it really the cat he hit or was really nothing at all?
In conclusion, I thought that Ms. Paula Fox made a beautiful choice in publishing One-eyed cat. If she never had, then I would have never been able to read such an interesting and suspenseful book. ... Read more

Book Description

With his bright blue eyes and sparky magical whiskers, no one could mistake Gobbolino for a kitchen cat, but that's exactly what he longs to be. So, while his sister Sootica learns to turn mice into toads, Gobbolino sets off on a grand adventure to find a nice warm fire and a family to care for him. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Gobbolino the Witch's Cat
This book was read to my class in England, when I was 15 years old. I'm nearly 40 now, and this delightful story has stuck with me for 25 years, until I could read it to my own child. Gobbolino, is a misunderstood soul, a character that all children can asociate with! I now live in Canada, and have spent several years trying to track this book down. Not all stories can drive a mother to these length's, to pass them on to their children. Its a special book!

Read this book
My dad read this book out loud to me at bedtime. Gobbolino wants to become a nice kitchen cat and his sister Sootica wants to be a mean and clever witch's cat. This book is exciting and I liked the ending. The story is always nice and nothing bad happens to Gobbolino, and if he gets hurt he always gets out of trouble. And he can blow sparks out of his whiskers (he does it to make the children laugh but it gets him in trouble with the grown ups).

wonderful writing, unpredictable and original
Very enjoyable adventure from beginning to end of a witch's cat who wants to be a kitchen cat. Gobbolino's adventures on his way to becoming a kitchen cat. A wonderful story to read aloud to the children.

Gobble up Gobbolino
Reading Gobbolino to my 7 year old has opened up a whole field of fantasy to both of us. Although the language at times needed to be explaned to a seven year old, each chapter was eagerly anticipated. Even as a bed time story it was both suitable and highly original.

Read it (if you can) ... Read more

Book Description

Lillian is an orphan who lives with her aunt on a homestead miles from anyone, surrounded by uncharted forest. She wanders the woods, chasing squirrels and rabbits and climbing trees. Free-spirited and independent Lillian is a kindred spirit to the many wild cats who gather around the ancient beech tree. One day, while she is under the beech, Lillian is bitten by a poisonous snake. The cats refuse to let her die, and use their magic to turn her into one of their own. How she becomes a girl again is a lyrical, original folktale.

Set in the countryside north of de Lint's fictional Newford, with some of the same characters as the duo's recent, acclaimed Seven Wild Sisters, A Circle of Cats is the long-awaited first picture book by long-time friends Charles de Lint and Charles Vess, whose masterful art is as magical as the story.

Illustrations by Charles Vess. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A new North American fable
Charles de Lint has long been creating a new North American mythology through his Newford (and pre-Newford, for that matter) stories of magical realities in a modern world, where Celtic, Native American, cyberspatial and other mysteries combine into a fresh tapestry of lore. Now, de Lint and artist Charles Vess have created a modern folk tale in which a young girl and the spirits of trees interact with the innate magic of cats.

The story is written for children, but adults -- particularly those who have been steeped in de Lint's lore in the past -- will still find this tale absorbing. It's perfect to read aloud to a child or for an intermediate reader to enjoy alone. The artwork, too, is an integral part of the story; Vess supplies us with a very vivid, spindly limbed and red-haired young heroine, brimming with sparkle and delight, seeing the world through deep, thoughtful eyes.

And the cats? Don't be surprised if one pads its way from the pages to curl up on your lap for a scratch and snooze.

Wonderful book!!
I rarely write reviews but this book is a fascinating read for adults and children alike. The illustrations are superb. Well worth buying.

An original childrens' story
This is an excellent, 44 page book for younger children, filled with full color illustrations. The type style and formatting make it easily readable. It is the story of a young girl, Lillian, who lives with her aunt at the edge of the forest, far from the nearest neighbors. She spends her free time wandering in the woods looking for fairies. When disaster strikes, she is saved by cat magic. This is an original fairy tale, and seems a mixture of folklore and magic. It can be read to younger children, or read by slightly older children. I would put the age level at 4 to 12, although I am 67 and thought it was an interesting tale (I actually bought it to use as a gift for a young child).

a beautiful experience
Circle of Cats is that rare thing, a perfect blend of words and pictures which really is something for all ages. Whilst this is most obviously described as a children's fairy tale, it would be wrong to set any artificial limits as to those who would enjoy it, because reading the story and looking at the pictures in Circle of Cats quickly becomes an experience which those of all ages might find themselves immersed in. Either the words or pictures alone would make for a fantastic (in both senses) piece of storytelling, and each and every painting in the book is a thing of beauty itself; the combination adds up to something more than the some of its parts. Recommended to the highest degree!

An Original Fairytale/Folktale
This book is a prequel to "Seven Wild Sisters", and focuses on the character of Lillian, a free-spirited orphan, who lives with her aunt, miles away from others. She is an independent and free spirit who leaves food for wild cats and seeks fairies in the wild forest and countryside. This is a magical, lyrical, and original fairytale written by Charles de Lint. Charles Vess' illustrations, in color throughout the book, are superb! Today it is rare to find an original fairytale that isn't a retelling of a classic tale. I recommend this book to all age groups, and most especially to those who love cats and fairytales. I predict that this book, along with the others in the series, will be cherished and read for years to come. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A Touching Tale
Our family recently had the opportunity to attend a program at our local library. The author, Libby Meggs read this book, Go Home! and presented a slide show of the real James the cat. We learned of the process she followed translating her photographs into the beautiful, detailed illustrations contained in the book. The reading itself provided a most touching tale of love and caring for young children. Highly recommended!

Winner of the national ASPCA Henry Bergh Award!
This book won the coveted national ASPCA Henry Bergh Award for humanitarian children's literature. Deservedly so!

It is a poignant story that teaches kindness to animals without preaching. The detailed, realistic illustrations are beautiful. I think this book should have won a Caldecott Award as well!

--A powerful and genuine story--
My friend Ann told me about this little book, and I decided that I too, should read it.

This is a poignant story of a lost and lonely cat. He's very attractive with black fur, a white chest, and white paws.The little feline wonders through a neighborhood hungry and weak,seeking a safe place.He meets some children and their mother who appear to admire him, but because he's wearing a collar they assume he belongs to someone in the area. The truth is, he's been lost for a long time and he has no home. The collar, once placed on him with care, is now outgrown and is causing him a great deal of pain. He does not remember how to get home. Months pass and the cat is slowly starving to death because he's too weak to hunt. One day,the exhausted cat is confronted by a large and aggressive dog. What happens to the cat and how he gets his name is a story every child will love.

This beautifully told narrative is well accompanied by memorable and touching illustrations. The fact that this is a true story makes it very powerful and reminds us that a stray animal may need help.

What a beautiful book!
The title caught our attention because my little boy is named James. We are not particularly cat lovers, but are dog lovers and animal lovers in general. The illustrations are beautiful; the story is captivating. My little Jimmy loved it and was very attentive when I read it to him. It teaches some great lessons and is very realistic.

A Very Popular Book in Manhattan
This book is amazingly popular with a wide variety of people I know. One six year old girl I know carries the book with her everywhere and asks people to read it to her. She says, "This is the best cat book I haveever read!" Also, I showed the book to my seventy-five+ year oldneighbors, and they loved it. They immediately bought copies as gifts, andhad to buy one for themselves. This book is beautiful and sweet. The storyof James the Cat will touch your heart. I really believe anyone would loveit! ... Read more

Book Description

Capitol Kitty has always been the top cat around the California State House.She is the poshest stray cat in the state - she has her every need attended to, and spends her days lording over her vast domain.Then one day, a new cat shows up, and threatens Capitol Kitty's beloved regal routine.The newcomer, Scare D. Cat, is a wimpy little stray, scared of his own shadow.Capitol Kitty takes him on a wild trip through the Capitol building.But the two cats get more than they bargained for in this hilarious and educational kitty adventure! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

True memories
As someone who grew up hearing the stories of the real Capitol Kitty, this book a treasure. It truly shows the magical world of the Capitol and what it would be like to live there. And now the story is captured in a book for so many more people to share!

Feisty Felines, Friendship and Government
This adventurous tale of the Kitty sititng pretty in the California State Capitol, is not only filled with fun and frolic, but of life lessons as well. Two very different cats take a journey filled with suprises and fun. The story is entertaining and the illustrations vivid and inviting. This is a good opportunity for kids to discover more about government and how it works, couched between the tail of two kittys.

Capitol Kitty shines
This book is a great way for children to learn more about the State Capitol. The illustrations are wonderful and add so much to the content of the story. A must buy for anyone associated with the Capitol and actually knows the real Capitol Kitty! ... Read more

Book Description

New Look! Relaunched with new jackets and 8 pages of new text!

Here is an exciting and informative guide to the extraordinary world of cats, both wild and domestic. Superb color photographs of large and small cats, and the art and artifacts they have inspired, offer a unique "eyewitness" view that covers the subject from tooth to claw.See a jaguar swimming, a cat that can outrun a car, a cat with a curly coat, a leopard that has lost its spots, the cat worshiped by the ancient Egyptians, a caracal's tufted ears, and a black panther stalking its prey.Learn why cats need whiskers, how cats purr, how the Manx cat lost its tail, why a lick form a friendly lion could skin you alive, why a lion has a mane, and why a tiger is striped.Discover how cats communicate, why cats play with prey, why cats eat grass, how and why a tomcat marks his territory, how cats find their way home, why the black cat has been both persecuted and pampered, why cats are said to have nine lives, and much, much more. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A detailed look at the secret lives of cats!
This is so much more than a reference book on cats. While the American Library Binding makes this book very durable, it could almost be a coffee table book on the life of cats.

Since I adore cats, this book was irresistible. Both wild and domestic cats are pictured in full color. The photographs are superb. Children will get to see a jaguar swimming in the tropical forest rivers and find out why the ancient Egyptians worshiped cats.

Did you know that Tigers actually enjoy swimming? Did you ever wonder if a cat chews its food? Why do cats need whiskers and how do they purr? So, why do cats behave in the ways they do? This book tells all the secrets including why people say a cat has nine lives.

The text is fun to read and little notes about historical details are sprinkled around the pages. The center of attention is definitely the furry felines we have grown to love. A special section of caring for your cat, makes this book the cat's meow!

Great Book!
My six year old son has checked this book out of the library three times. He loves the pictures and is surprisingly interested in all the information about cats. He's also watched the Eyewitness Cat video numerous times. We've read lots of Eyewitness books, but this is his favorite.

There are lots of cats in this book.
This book has all kinds of cats: From Tigers to Cougars ... Read more

Book Description

Suppose you had an extraordinary gift: You can see flashes of things to come, mostly ominous. Sometimes you see friends in trouble, but more often you see people who deserve a dose of bad luck. Would you try to change the outcome?

Welcome to Jasper's world, where coincidence and catastrophe are never far apart. But there's only so much Jasper can do about it-because he's a cat.

Rescued from a shelter where he witnessed the grim fate of other unwanted animals, this young cat has already grown up fast. Then, left behind when his human family moves away, he learns quickly that it's best to stay wary of life and its uncertainty.

Emboldened by his unexpected freedom, Jasper successfully fends for himself on the streets. He outwits vicious neighborhood dogs and jealous fellow felines. But the truth is that he secretly yearns for a new home. When he's lucky enough to find one, it's everything he dreamed of and more: a warm bed, good food, and a family to love him.

But something isn't right. He can still sense when something dreadful is about to happen: a fire, an accident, a friend in trouble. Worse, he can't do anything about it-because now he's been made an indoor pet. He's trapped inside his home among clueless humans. He tries to close his eyes to his own intuition, but that only makes it harder to ignore. In his mind, Jasper can see a car coming, and someone in the wrong place at the wrong time…

In an attempt to do what's right, should he risk escaping from the home he's worked so hard to find, knowing he might lose everything?

Jasper the cat is a pragmatic philosopher. Jasper the book is a stylish, fast-moving adventure, and a story that readers of all ages will remember and want to share.

... Read more

Reviews (10)

Should become a classic!
I have read all of the 10 reviews above and agree with every one of them!So, I just want to add my 5 stars to a beautiful, inciteful book which would be a wonderful gift to all animal lovers from 10 to 100 and beyond.

Newberry Medal award candidate
A new author and a great beginning. The main characters, a cat that talks to an owl, are as full and intriguing as Wilbur, a pig who talks to his friend Charlotte, a spider.The author wraps the tough decisions and heavy toils exacted by life into an engrossing tale of a cat with a twist - a cat that can see the future. Like all good books, the message winds its way through the book as the cat's journey takes it from one missed opportunity to another and as the 'good' decisions directly affects others and indirectly builds a charcter adults can appreciate as well as children. A good book to give yourself and to pass along to others.

Jasper sparkles!
Cats must have a special relationship with the moon, the way they love to prowl at night. But Jasper, the tender-hearted title character of this strong-and-tender novel, is an even more gifted "luna"tic: why is it, he asks, that he can hear the moon speak, but other animals can't? And why does she take a special interest in his psychic gift? Jasper has foresight: of a neighbor's house on fire, or a cat in danger of being run over. What he does with his gift is the subject of this book. Jasper, homeless and masterless, would like nothing better-- he thinks-- than to be adopted and laze the hours away with a full belly. But the visions (and the moon, gently but firmly) keep calling him back to action, often for people and animals he loathes. This kind of story could lapse into moral platitudes. But Michelle Groce, like the moon with Jasper, always coaxes her prose and her theme to go the extra mile. This book is beautiful, moving, full of hopeful certainty. It's especially appropriate for older children with thoughtful hearts and a love for animals, but adults will find in Jasper abundant application to their own lives, which makes it a perfect book club selection. And I guarantee, after reading this book, you'll never look at a dog or a cat again without wondering what that bark or meow is really expressing.

Cats and Owls
This book was given to me by my mom.She bought it because I love cats.We were both surprised to find it also has an owl as a main character.You would have to see my room to see why this is significant.Needless to say I love cats and owls.The cat (Jasper) and the owl (Hank) are great characters and you will love them.Jasper is so smart and he is like the cat I have always wanted.I have a cat, she is like Chloe(read the book), I love her but - she's no Jasper.

Jasper has a very special power.He can see when bad things are going to happen.The problem is, the bad things don't always happen to good people.Jasper wants to be a house cat very badly, but he has a lot of choices to make.Does he help those that are in trouble?Some of the choices may ruin his chances of living as a housecat forever.Which is the right thing to do?Jasper (with Hank's help) is faced with these problems.What they decide is what makes this a great book.

I highly recommend this book.It is my favorite of the year.I would have said Hoot was the best, but the Owl(Hank)in this book is much better and Jasper is such a great cat.If you bought Hoot because you love owls but were dissapointed because the owls really aren't in the story you will love this.Hank is a big part of the story and he is a great character.He is truly a wise owl and helps Jasper a lot even if Hank never quite understands why Jasper wants to be with the humans.

I love the ending, but surely it will be continued?

Some Cat!
A psychic cat and a naive owl make unlikely sidekicks in this engaging story by exciting new voice, Michelle Groce. What begins as a stray's search for a home quickly becomes complicated by an obstacle course of moral dilemmas. Although billed as young adult fiction "old" adults will definitely enjoy this thoughtful read. I am WAY over 21 and I loved Jasper. ... Read more

Book Description

Here's the heartwarming, true story of the cat who risked her life to save her five kittens from a burning building.Written for very young readers, The Bravest Cat! follows the feline family's recovery and their eventual adoptions into loving homes. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Reading Specialist Praises Scarlett
As a reading specialist at a large elementary school, I was delighted to discover The Bravest Cat! The True Story of Scarlett. It is a wonderful book for children (and adults!)
of all ages. It paints a very real picture of a wonderful mother cat and her family. It is well written with a flowing
sequence of events. This book can be used as a teaching tool with any age child, not only for reading content but also as a
model for writing. I also thought the art work was beautiful
and was particularly touched by the picture on the final page.
This book has been chosen to be a paperback theme book for our
latest reading adoption series. I think that alone proclaims its quality and high value. I really would like more information on the real Scarlett. News stories, etc. that offer support would be great. This is a must read book for all animal lovers!

WONDERFUL!
My daughter and I LOVE this book! What courage! We saw the story of Scarlett on Reading Rainbow and fell in love with her. She's an inspiration for courage and is a great example of the wonders and wonderful creations of the Lord Jesus!

Heros come in all shapes and sizes
This story is based on a true story of rescue and a mother cat's love. I purchased this story for my six year old who is just starting to learn how to read. She is loves animals and would like to become a vet someday at least for now. I heard the story on the news several years ago when it acutally happend. I fell in love with Scarlet because of how she showed the world that even cats can be heros.

A mother's sacrifice
I've reviewed a number of wartime memoirs which document the strength of mothers' love under fire. In this children's book is the true story of "Scarlet", the stray cat who braved a roaring fire to rescue her kittens, one at a time. The mother cat was badly burned by the time she had saved her kittens, but the New York firefighters who witnessed her heroic feat rushed the family to the vets' in time. Overnight, "Scarlet" became an international celebrity and symbol of the power of maternal instinct. This book is beautifully illustrated and very simply written for the beginner readers. Parents will enjoy reading this heart-warming story aloud to younger children.

My daughter loved it
I bought this book for my daughter and she really enjoyed it. A very heartwarming story, that every child should read. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Cleo is an orange-striped cat, hungry and all alone in the world, butdetermined to change her solitary status. So, after a wink and a yawn and astretch, Cleo sets out to find a home. Lucky cat! She finds one on her firsttry. But will the residents of the house take to her as well as she does totheir bowls of milk and concealing knitting baskets? Readers will be satisfiedto see that she comes full circle from her first awakening in the morning: "Cleolicks her paws. / Cleo takes a leap. / Cleo starts to purr. / Cleo fallsasleep." This time, however, she's found a lap to nap on.

With Stella Blackstone's simple rhymes and Caroline Mockford's lush,color-soaked pictures, this appealing little board book makes a sweetlyreassuring story for the youngest readers. Don't miss Come Here, Cleo, number two inthe bright series by this creative pair. (Baby to preschool) --EmilieCoulter ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great Addition to our Library
I love children's books and this one is great. The beautiful and colorful illustrations grabs the attention of my one-year-old, and my three-year-old loves to read along with the simple and engaging text. For some reason though they become quickly bored with it and are more inclined to pore over Dr. Suess or Vegetales books. Not sure why this is so. Maybe it's simply a book you can appreciate and not one you'd cuddle up in bed with and read over and over.

a sweet book for baby
I love looking at children's books now that I have had my first child. But as I have shopped, I've learned that many books marked Baby to Preschool are not always appropriate for a baby under 1 or even 2 (aside from being excellent for chewing) because the topic or text is too advanced. But sometimes, it's nice to find a book that conceptually works for the little ones. And this book is perfect. Very simple text about a little cat who wants to find a friend and a home. The story is not too cloying, and it's not silly. But it is humorous, cute, and sweet. The colorful artwork matches the sweet, rhyming text. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

The character Rotten Ralph was created more than twenty years ago. Now the worlds most rotten cat and his friend, Sarah, set out again on a variety of capricious capers. In three brand-new boisterously entertaining stories, Rotten Ralph is sure to weasel his way into the hearts of another generation of readers. In Back to School for Rotten Ralph, summer is over, and Sarah cant wait to start school and make some new friendsother than her rotten cat, Ralph. But Ralph wants to be Sarahs only friend, and he won't be left behind. When Sarah boards the school bus, he disguises himself as a student, follows her to class, and starts his scheme of sabotage. Ralphs plan works brilliantly until his true identity is revealed and the entire class wants to be friends with Sarah and Ralph!

... Read more

Reviews (1)

Explores sibling jealousy in a unique way
Here's a book about the first day of school that doesn't have the main character dreading her first day of school. On the contrary, Sarah is excited at the thought of making new friends.

But not everyone in the household is as happy for Sarah. In fact, Ralph, Sarah's rotten red cat, is doing everything he can to sabotage her school day: he sets back her clock, draws all over her new school dress and tries to trick her into staying home by faking an illness.

When Ralph gets the bright idea to follow Sarah to school, his antics get her in trouble and keep her from making new friends. Fans of Rotten Ralph--this is the ninth book in the series--know that all's well that ends well, but first-time readers may be a bit put off by Ralph, who seems just a tad too mean.

Rubel's chunky illustrations are colorful and bold. Her rendering of Ralph captures his true spirit right on the money...he's bright red with pointy ears and a devilish grin.

Gantos' book would be a good way to explore the jealousy that younger siblings might feel when an older brother or sister gets to try a new and exciting experience that they don't. Younger children might not recognize themselves in Rotten Ralph and his outrageous tactics, but I'm betting that parents will. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The wonder of nature
This book should appeal to many age levels. My 18 month old begs for it over and over again. The illustrations are beautiful- soft and detailed with the animals filling up the whole page. The text is one or two sentences per page and he knows the names of the animals. For the older child the facts about each animal provide an introduction to the fascinating diversity of the natural world and a reference point leading to a discussion of his or her own birth.

Lovely book!
I read this beautifully illustrated book to my four-year-old son many times throughout my pregancy. The fact that he was born himself, just like the animals, pleased him immensely. I enjoyed reading it over and over because of the simple, charming words the author uses to describe birth. The whale mother nudges the baby whale up for its "first sip of air." The baby elephant wears "a halo of long, brown hair." And the human baby "rode curled beneath (its) mother's heart." What a wonderful, sweet way to explain the miracle of life to young children. It is also a great way to explain the different ways some animals are born. Daddy Seahorses give birth? Frogs have babies that don't look like them? It could lead to yet another trip to the library!

My son's baby sister is more than six months old, yet he still counts this book as one of his favorites. I highly recommend it!

the author has an almost magical way of describing birth.
With brief, but magical descriptions of the moments of birth for several animals, the author carries you into the special realization of the unique and magical love in human birth. The artist's fantastic pictures bring you into the world of each animal. A beautiful, and gentle introduction into the world of reproduction, without fear or discomfort. Complete innocence left unmarked, but with inspired appreciation for a true miracle. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Kitty Princess
This delightfully animated spin on the traditional Cinderella tale stars a rude and arrogant Kitty Princess as its main character. She is a great contrast to the traditional Cinderella who is typically presented as kind, generous, and loving. This tale is told from the point of view of Kitty's Fairy Godmouse who becomes fed up with her mistreatment and lets Kitty fend for herself while preparing for Prince Quince's ball. As can be expected, the results fall far short of Kitty's expectations and she must deal with the consequences of her actions. The ending is unexpected as the focus remains on Kitty Princess while Prince Quince has a lesson of his own to learn.

The story focuses on Kitty Princess and her dynamic character transformation. The reader becomes appalled at Kitty's mistreatmnet of others while anxious to find out how her lesson is learned. During her solitary journey, she travels from store to store demanding shoes, jewelry, and a gown for Prince Quince's ball. When the shop owners attempt to fill her requests, she is greatly disappointed. She recognizes the error of her ways and discovers disrespect and rudeness do not serve her well. She resolves to treat others in a more kind and less demanding way. Kitty becomes a credible character as young children will identify with wanting their own way immediately but resolving to do better in the future.

Young children will delight in the journey Kitty takes. Children in middle elementary grades will enjoy a different take on the Cinderella story which focuses less on how to impress the prince and more on how to treat all people.

Crankiness has never been so stylish!
There are numerous refreshing aspects to this tale of fashion, community, appreciation, and a stubborn little kitty princess. Expressed through a vivid and textured Japanese motif, Princess Kitty is laying down the high demands in anticipation of a royal ball. What little princess wouldn't want to be the most glorious geisha of the bunch? Its the witty dialogue that drives this story to supremacy. (The narrator is Kitty's frustrated fairy mouse.)
This tale is great to read aloud to kids and even adult peers. You will get a sugar high off of the fabulous illustrations alone. Get this for your favorite little princess and/or the princess that's within. ... Read more