HAPPY CATS

Assorted feline friends take front and center to demonstrate a variety of (mostly) opposite pairs.

Cats are grouped into loose categories including colors, shapes, demeanors, and locations. Each category features six different pairings in short two-word descriptions followed by a longer six- or seven-syllable concluding line: “white cat / black cat / blue cat / brown cat // high cat / low cat / always upside-down cat.” It won’t take long for readers to begin chanting rather than reciting the lines. Pen-and-ink drawings digitally colored in muted tones elegantly illustrate all the varieties and possibilities outlined in the simple text. Backgrounds are uncluttered, often empty, so readers can take in Lenox’s keen understanding of feline personalities and behaviors. The descriptive words are highlighted in bold lettering, boosting accessibility for budding readers, while nonreaders will enjoy exploring the myriad postures expressed in the portrayals. Readers see a “bold cat” sitting atop a stool and a “shy cat” hiding below it and a “nice cat” licking her kitten versus a “mean cat” with narrowed eyes and bristling fur. An the end, cat lovers will surely appreciate the many aspects of feline behavior demonstrated by “one cat / MANY cats / hungry cats / scrappy cats / noisy cats / quiet cats… / very, very HAPPY cats” as all gather around the feeding bowl. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Simplicity at its best.