SPLAT THE CAT

Splat is terrified of his first day at Cat School and “his tail wiggle[s] wildly with worry.” He’ll need a friend, so he takes his pet mouse Seymour with him. Mrs. Wimpydimple covers lots of territory in class: Self-esteem (“Cats are amazing”) is followed by nature (“Cats climb trees, drink mild, and chase mice”). Chaos ensues when Seymour jumps out of Splat’s bright yellow lunch box and the “cats [do] what cats do.” Their savvy teacher saves the day—and Seymour. By day two, Splat’s “tail wiggle[s] wildly…with excitement.” Primary colors, especially red, brighten the modern palette of black, gray and moody blues and greens. Humorous touches in the highly textured illustrations delight: Splat’s mouse slippers sit beside his bed, and fishbone wallpaper lines his walls. From the blackboard lessons to the store-window signs advertising white chocolate mice, jelly fish and fish cakes, environmental print creates visual interest. Splat himself is a hoot with his spindly legs, flyaway fur and highly expressive tail. Sure to stir things up at storytime. (Picture book. 3-8)