Black Cat, White Cat: A Minibombo Book

Description

From School Library Journal PreS-Gr 1—Black Cat is completely black, from the tip of his nose to the tip of his tail. He goes out only during the day. By contrast, White Cat is utterly white from tip to tip and ventures forth only by night. Each savors the particular delights of the diurnal or nocturnal lifestyle, but each is also very curious about the time of day he/she is missing. Finally, White Cat and Black Cat decide to explore the part of the day s/he has never seen before. Each feline meets the other for the first time and acts as a guide to day and night, respectively. The cats are captivated by the miracles they never saw or knew about—and with each other. They become so inseparable that, before long, they produce…six kittens whose color readers are invited to guess at the end. A final page turn reveals a marvelous, unexpected (though unlikely) surprise! This adorable Italian import beguiles with its simplicity—the language is spare, so children not yet reading will comprehend read-alouds readily, and beginner readers should be able to easily navigate the basic text and short but meaningful sentences. The appealing illustrations work beautifully with the story: the art is rendered completely in stark black and white, with each cat and other features set against a page and accompanying type of the opposite color. VERDICT A highly recommended charmer for storytimes in all libraries, exploring concepts of opposites and friendship. This will be a big hit, especially when adult readers draw out that startling reveal at the end.—Carol Goldman, Queens Library, NY Read more Review It is a wonderful exercise in juxtaposition. Basic shapes and minimal linework will appeal to the very young, while sophisticated patterning will appeal to all. The charming, cheery text also holds a surprise ending, for which giggles are sure to ensue! Borando creates a genuine affinity between the two felines, her art and text, and readers and page. Simply captivating.—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)A highly recommended charmer for storytimes in all libraries, exploring concepts of opposites and friendship. This will be a big hit, especially when adult readers draw out that startling reveal at the end.—School Library Journal Read more See all Editorial Reviews