Cat on the Bus

PreS-Gr 1—This simple story invites readers to follow the journey of a homeless cat and its search for food and shelter. This almost wordless picture book takes place in winter as the cat forages for food, looking for warmth and shelter. The short phrases of onomatopoeia connect the story; a large font accents the noise: "CLACK. Clang Rattle Clatter!" The artwork is well constructed, evoking emotion with strong lines, perspective, and visual congruency. As the cat searches for warmth, it spots a bus stop and tries to board the vehicle but is forced out. "Scram, Scoot SHOO!" says the angry bus driver. On another page, the use of a paneled spread reveals the cold of winter and time passing as the dejected animal waits for another bus. At last it arrives, and the kind driver allows the cat aboard: "Whoosh!" A sense of hope is imparted as the cat looks out the window at the many people and pets encountering the hustle and bustle of the holiday. At the next stop, an older gentleman takes a seat next to the feline, and before long they are fast friends. The cat is taken to the man's house, which he shares with his granddaughter. The characters' love for the animal becomes evident as the grandfather wraps his scarf around it. Vignettes display the joy between the cat and the little girl as they play, eat, and even share a story until it is time for bed. Front and back flaps foreshadow a happy ending.