Here, Kitty, Kitty, Kitty

Here, Kitty, Kitty, Kitty

Picture books
Recently I discovered three gems for cat lovers of all ages in
the Orono Public Library picture book section.
Sandy Ferguson Fuller's My Cat, Coon Cat is a love story told in
verse. A little girl finds a skittish coon cat on her porch. Showing
more patience than most adults, she follows it respectfully, observing
its activities, laying out a bowl of milk. When a storm arrives her
kindness is rewarded by a new friend sharing her cozy home. Jeannie
Brett's lively illustrations show a deep familiarity with Maine as in
when Coon Cat stalks a dragonfly through a field of lupines. Coon
cats have been the Maine State cat since 1895. Only two other states
(Massachusetts and Maryland) even have state cats!
Cat And Bear is a tale of rivalry just about any child (or
adult) who has a younger sibling will be able to relate to. Cat has
been a child's beloved companion. When a teddy arrives as a burthday
gift Cat is not amused. "'The Child already has a furry friend,' he
growled. "Me. Bear is unnecessary.'"
Bear sings little songs which really rub Cat the wrong way.
When Bear gets affection from the child cat decides to take matters
into his own paws. A series of "accidents" happens. A fall out the
window seems to do the trick...
...so why is Bear having trouble sleeping? Didn't he get his
wish?
C. Roger Mader's Lost Cat is a sweet little love story. Slipper
has lived since kittenhood with a senior citizen, enjoying food,
attention, and a cozy place to sleep at night. One day the lady's
daughter moves her to live with her family. Forgotten Slipper chases
the van valiantly before giving up and looking for someone to adopt.
No one is quite right until...
...nah, not gonna give this ending away.
Mader was told that as a writer he should let the story come to
him. So when a grey and white cat came to his door he did just that.
His speculations on its origin became the story while the cat itself
was the model for the illustrations. Both man and cat won out since
the cat got itself a loving family. How cool is that?
All three books are the total cat's pajamas. Youngsters will
request for them to be read again and again.
On a personal note, I read the books and wrote the review with my own
tuxedo cat, Joseph Jacob Hathaway, curled up contentedly on my lap.
A great big shout out goes out to dear sweet cats and all who treasure
them.
Julia Emily Hathaway and Joey Cat


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