The Reading Nook | Mr. Pusskins: A Love Story
by Sandra Harris, posted on July 24th, 2012 in The Reading Nook
Ever feel those pangs about the road not taken? That life is just getting a bit too dull? This is the book for you. And for your littles. It’s the story of Emily and her sweet little orange cat, Mr. Pusskins. At least she thinks he’s sweet.
Emily adores Mr. Pusskins but, “the girl’s constant babbling, ‘Blah-de-blah, blah, blah,’ bored his whiskers off. He wanted more than this dull life”.
And so Mr. Pusskins starts on his adventure, falling in with the wrong crowd (the Pesky Cat Gang). Being naughty feels soooo good – at first at least.
You know that writerly advice of “write what you know?” Mr. Pusskins MUST be based on a real cat as author and illustrator Sam Lloyd lives in Brighton, UK with her son Ozzy and their enormous orange cat.
When you see the illustrations you will not be surprised to learn that the book won both the Booktrust Pre-School Award and the V&A Illustrator Award. Lloyd’s dry brush technique perfectly captures Mr. Pusskins long, fluffy fur that becomes mangier and messier after he runs away.
Emily and her cat are finally reunited and Mr. Pusskins learns that the grass isn’t always greener. Sometimes you just need to appreciate what you have.
*editor’s note: You can pick up a copy of the book at Barnes & Noble, Powell’s Books, Amazon and your local library. Enjoy!
Jennifer Cooper Says:
