The Dancing Cat

A toy cat realizes her dream of becoming a dancer.

Kindergarten-Grade 2-- An exquisite toy cat, equipped with ``jointed legs, a fish in her pocket, and a mask with a fierce cat scowl on it,'' dreams of being a dancer. Her fantasies are shattered, however, when she is bought by a feisty little girl whose cats pride themselves on forceful fighting and ferocious clawing. The child becomes disgusted with the toy's meek nature and throws her on the floor; she is rescued by a kindhearted cousin, Ben, a kindred spirit who at once realizes that Tasha was born to dance. This is an enchanting tale with a simple, powerful message--dreams can be realized. The striking, detailed illustrations, a combination of colored pencil and watercolor, bring to life the endearing stuffed animals of the nursery, the sullen protagonist, and the gentle hero. Most impressive though is a two-page spread of Tasha, with a perfect breakup of light and dark and flow of movement. If one blinks for just a moment, she really does appear to be dancing. --Debra S. Gold, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Cleveland
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Since the ``rough little girl'' likes ``friction and fighting and fuss,'' the toy cat wearing a fierce mask looks just right for her, but she's not--she's a gentle soul who yearns to dance. The girl's other toys are contemptuous, but still the cat refuses to fight. The mask falls off and breaks; a visiting cousin recognizes the cat's true quality and takes her home to be the star of his theatrical games. With toys as symbols of human foibles, and with Rendal's quietly telling language, this is reminiscent of Andersen despite its upbeat conclusion. Intriguing, especially as extended by Oberdieck's carefully detailed illustrations--a nice blend of satire and sympathy. (Picture book. 4-8) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.