Every night Victor always asked Charlie, “Who’s the best cat in the world?” Charlie would purr contentedly in reply. When Charlie dies, Victor is heartbroken. Everyone tries to ease his grief. Mom makes his favorite supper, but he has little appetite. His teacher and classmates draw pictures of Charlie. Then the vet asks Victor to take in a new kitten. At first Victor constantly compares Shelly to Charlie and finds her wanting. But gradually he begins to appreciate her as his new “best cat in the world.” The adults display kindly acceptance and great wisdom in helping Victor deal with the death of his beloved pet. Newman skillfully manages to convey sympathy without being cloying, and she never belittles Victor’s feelings. Himler’s watercolor illustrations are appropriately warm and fuzzy, and are well-matched to the text. A sweet story about grief and acceptance. (Picture book. 4-6)
