FICTION

Kitty and Cat: Opposites Attract

by Mirka Hokkanen (text) & illus. by Mirka Hokkanen
Candlewick. Apr. 2023. 40p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781536223675.
COPY ISBN
PreS-K–Old or new, grumpy or happy, opposites describe this charming pair of cats as they learn to live with each other. A new kitten arrives in a home, and the senior cat learns to accommodate, and then embrace, the new member of the family. Hokkanen combines an opposites-filled text and digital illustrations to capture the tone and emotion of both cats. The complete narrative is accomplished through minimal language and expressive illustrations that will help students understand concepts like “push and pull” or “energetic and exhausted,” and even “many and few.” By story’s end a new bond has been formed, which is fortunate, as on the end papers it’s clear a new pet is being brought into the house, and the two cats are going to have their paws full managing the new arrival.
VERDICT Highly entertaining for teaching opposites or for prompting students to add descriptive language to a fun story. The conclusion of the book could also be used to engage students in writing their own sequel.
Reviewed by John Scott , Jun 23, 2023

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