THE SECRET KITTEN

This household bears a superficial resemblance to the family of Mog, the Forgetful Cat (p. 192, J-54) minus the carefully rendered detail. Mallet's button-faced children, Father (mild-mannered behind his oversized horn rimmed glasses) and Mother (pink dress and turned up nose) are perfect set-ups for the heartwarming conclusion. The kitten's emergence from the toddler's bedroom closet (where he's been hidden since Mother said a pet would be too much trouble and Father said one would make him sneeze) causes the parents to change their minds on the spot. There are warm smiles all around and the children chant ""We can keep him, We can keep him."" Only the very youngest will be able to share in their celebration.