Saturday, September 13, 2008

Katie Loves the Kittens, written and illustrated by John Himmelman

Katie Loves the Kittens written and illustrated by John Himmelman

Katie is a clumsy floppy-eared dog whose owner Sara Ann has just brought home three kittens. According to the book it was, "the most exciting day in Katie's whole life." She's so happy that she can't help but howling, "AROOOOOOOOO!" As you may imagine, it frightens the kittens, and Sara Ann scolds her. Katie is determined to control her excitement around the kittens, but every time she gets close to them, another "AROOOOOOOOOO!" comes out. Can Katie control herself enough to enjoy the kittens and to please Sara Ann? Maybe....


This book is sooooo sweet, satisfying, and funny. The simple, yet engaging storyline is perfect for beginning readers and kids with short attention spans. Himmelman's illustrations are very amusing. Katie's "AROOOOOOOOO's" send kittens scurrying up lampshades and windows; her pathetic facial expressions when Sara Ann scolds her are adorable; and her futile attempts at self control are hilarious.

This is one of those books that I think both boys and girls will love, especially those who love cats and dogs. It would make an excellent read aloud for the entire family.



What Other Bloggers Are Saying:

Fuse #8: " Maybe it’s the three-year-old in me, but there is nothing finer in this world that watching characters explode off a page over, under, around, and through. Tumbling, tossing, flying, it’s all wonderful. " (read more...)

4IQREAD: "This is a very simple sweet picture book with charming illustrations that capture nicely Katie’s eagerness to make friends with the kittens and highlight her engaging expressions and movements." (read more...)

We Love Children's Books: "I don't laugh out loud at many books but I did with this one! The words and pictures work together perfectly, telling a fine story with on the mark canine and feline behavior." (read more...)




More Info:
  • Reading level: Ages 4-8
  • Hardcover: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) (September 16, 2008)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 080508682X
  • ISBN-13: 978-0805086829
  • Source: Review copy from publisher


2 comments:

  1. I look forward to the book. My students enjoy Himmelman's books.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Clair,
    If your students enjoy Himmelman's other books, there's a good chance they'll like this one too. This is actually the first Himmelman book I've read, but it's turned me into a fan.

    ReplyDelete