The Cat, The Dog, Little Red, the Exploding Eggs, the Wolf and Grandma’s Wardrobe (Hardback)

In the Bookbag’s top 10 children’s picture books of the year

 

Cat is trying to read a much-loved classic children’s fairy tale to Dog. Parents will sympathise with Cat as he suffers question after question from inquisitive Dog.

Minimal words and pictures combine to create a powerfully funny book, with two new delightful, engaging and appealing characters in a perfect debut – a book with true appeal for all ages.

Now published in paperback for the first time, this book was chosen by Julia Eccleshare as one of “the best of 2014” in The Guardian in December 2014.

 

Review

‘Simple line drawings Ó la Sandra Boynton give the animals adorably large snouts and tiny bodies, …There’s plenty of subversive laughter, and a sly turn at the end when the cat’s bloodthirsty account of the climax exposes the dog’s tenderer feelings: “Are you absolutely sure this is a children’s book?” he asks. (Publishers Weekly)

‘ If you think you know the tale of Little Red Riding Hood
think again. I adore the story, and was in fits of giggles as I read this version. The
illustrations are simple but effective especially with the witty banter between the two
characters as they discuss the tale. Readers of all ages will appreciate the humour,
especially those who have read more than one version of the classic tale .’ (Nayu’s reading corner)

‘ The combination of text and artwork is likely to appeal
strongly to older early-years readers and listeners, especially those who are well
acquainted with the traditional tale.’ (The school Librian)

‘ This is a clever and witty picture book… variations in page layout, text
size, use of blank space and colour mean this book is beautifully designed. Very
entertaining. ‘ (Carousel)

ÔÇÿ The pictures, simple drawings of cat and dog throughout, are
brilliant. They add wonderfully to the humour, I think because of where they’re
placed on the page and the tone of the words they go with. … The tone is brilliant, is
cleverly done and so very simple yet it works beautifully. Naughtiness and
imagination and a good, fun story that is great to read at home, or lovely to give as a
gift.’ (The book Bag)

“Every once in a great while, a book comes along that combines story and illustrations so seamlessly and to such great effect that it looks effortless. This is such a book. Cat and Dog are destined to become a bestselling and recognised team; the Odd Couple of the book world.” (The Guardian)

ÔÇÿThe humour is very funny throughout… The simplicity of the drawings and the laugh aloud dialogue will delight six-year-olds and upwards.’┬á (Irish Examiner)

ÔÇÿA picture book which will be enjoyed by those with knowledge of fairy tales and the Little Red Riding Hood story in particular… The way in which the text is presented means that it could be read in class as a dramatic duologue.’ (CLPE)

ÔÇÿIs this the longest picture book title ever? It certainly makes you stop and think – and the story won’t disappoint….It’s great fun and wonderfully illustrated with cartoon characters. Cat and Dog are set to become great favourites.’ (Parents in Touch)

ÔÇÿ10/10 …A novel & hilarious take on Little Red Riding Hood’ (Nayu’s Reading Corner)

About the Author

DIANE and CHRISTYAN FOX together have created more than 40 children’s book in the past 26 years; Christyan has also illustrated another 37, by various authors. They studied graphic design together at Middlesex University, and pursued individual careers before discovering how well they worked together. They live just outside London with their three children.┬á