I DON'T WANT A COOL CAT!

It’s definitely been done before—by the author herself (I Don’t Want a Posh Dog, 2009) as well as by myriad others who’ve created their own takes on “why my pet’s the best.” Still, this rhyming litany of all the characteristics the unnamed narrator is not looking for in a cat seems likely to find an enthusiastic audience. The attractive, inventive illustrations have a cartoon-style simplicity but include enough detail and variety to make repeat readings enjoyable. The depiction of the narrator, a young girl with a button nose, bowl haircut and red dress and shoes, remains constant throughout, providing continuity and connection. From the low-key humor of the double-page spread that features a large, chops-licking tiger (“I don’t want a big cat”) to the engaging internal rhyme of, “I don’t want a prowly cat. / A howly, yowly, scowly cat,” to the “purry” happy ending, there’s plenty for young listeners and adult readers to enjoy. For those who don’t want a dull book, never fear—Dodd's latest is picture- (and pitch-) perfect. (Picture book. 2-5)