Kringle with my library copy of the book I’ve become a huge fan of haiku, and was delighted to find this sweet children’s book filled with beautifully written work. It’s always a good sign when the library copy is well thumbed. I also love that the story features a rescued cat, telling the story in his own words. Won Ton’s story is heartwarming and funny. We begin at the shelter, with the only poem spread all over the page. Perhaps it’s symbolic of the discombobulation that happens after rescue. In haiku style, it says:
Nice place they got here. Bed. Bowl. Blankie. Just like home! Or so I’ve been told. The second haiku builds on the shelter experience with deep feeling. Artwork above depicts a row of wire cages, Won Ton in the middle: Gypsy on my left. Pumpkin, my right. Together, we are all alone. We can sympathize with Won Ton’s mixed feelings as he enters new experiences. When he leaves the shelter: Latch squeaks. Door swings wide. Free! Free at last! Yet, one claw snags, clings to what’s known. I enjoyed the creative wording in this poem, accompanied by artwork of Won Ton leaping over a lamp that’s heading to the floor: Pesky fly! Allow me to muzzle his buzzle. Never mind the lamp. Another poem uses words in an unexpected way to perfectly capture a lovely cat connection: Your tummy, soft as warm dough. I knead and knead, then bake it with a nap. The concluding poem ends with a surprise that marks the strong bond between the young human and his cat. The story is told seamlessly in 33 delightful haiku, accompanied by funny, expressive illustrations. Recommended! - Irene Plett Details: Won Ton: A Cat Tale Told in Haiku, by Lee Wardlaw, illustrated by Eugene Yelchin (2011, Henry Holt and Company, ISBN 9780805089950). Topics: Cat poetry, rescued cats, haiku
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AuthorServant of cats and words, Irene Plett, and friends. Categories
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