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Caramba
Caramba is a fat, furry, striped cat with a big problem. “Every single cat in the world can fly,” he sighs, “except me!” Caramba would love to swoop and glide between the clouds, to feel the wind whistling through his fur. He tries to soar into the sky over and over again but always lands flat on his face, until finally he sadly accepts that he is earthbound. “Don't be such a scaredy-cat,” cry his cousins. “All cats are meant to fly!” They grab his paws and whisk him up into the sky for an impromptu flying lesson that ends with a big splash… and a surprising discovery in this beautifully illustrated story with a special message of self-acceptance.
40 pages
First published August 1, 2005
86 people want to read
About the author
Marie-Louise Gay
130 books72 followersMarie-Louise Gay is the illustrator of many award-winning children's books. She is from Montreal, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 2, 2020
I patronize charities, to support them and obtain the most affordable deals. The wonderful thing about secondhand shopping is discovering Canadian authors and rare or self-published local writers. From 2005, “Caramba” is a new acquisition. Montréaler, Marie-Louise Gay is beloved and apparently well-known. I will gladly try her other books but have to admit that this one did not appeal to me. I give three stars. I admire those occasional authors, who are also talented in creating their illustrations too.
By no fault of Marie-Louise, what punctured my enjoyment came partly from spoilers. The Canadian Children’s Book Centre started an annual donation of books. Grade one pupils across Canada receive free literature. TD Bank sponsors the program and in an introduction letter at the front of “Caramba”: the CEO divulged nearly the whole story! I like starting with dedications and introductions whenever I read books but see that my literacy program copy would not have eliminated the spoiler. The public synopsis gives away the main story twist too; which I will eliminate wherever I have control, such as at Goodreads.
The rest of my grade does in fairness derive from the story. It involves a world in which cats fly. Instead of establishing that with one sentence; it was repeated so much, it felt forced and false. I also disagree with the notion that any species just does what is common for them, without being taught. Not all people can walk, talk, read, or write. Those of us who do practice for years. You do not throw anyone into the air! Marie-Louise was certainly only portraying the way people really can react with surprise at those who are different and that reaction was unpleasant indeed. I loved what Caramba excelled at instead and hope that twist is no longer spoiled!
By no fault of Marie-Louise, what punctured my enjoyment came partly from spoilers. The Canadian Children’s Book Centre started an annual donation of books. Grade one pupils across Canada receive free literature. TD Bank sponsors the program and in an introduction letter at the front of “Caramba”: the CEO divulged nearly the whole story! I like starting with dedications and introductions whenever I read books but see that my literacy program copy would not have eliminated the spoiler. The public synopsis gives away the main story twist too; which I will eliminate wherever I have control, such as at Goodreads.
The rest of my grade does in fairness derive from the story. It involves a world in which cats fly. Instead of establishing that with one sentence; it was repeated so much, it felt forced and false. I also disagree with the notion that any species just does what is common for them, without being taught. Not all people can walk, talk, read, or write. Those of us who do practice for years. You do not throw anyone into the air! Marie-Louise was certainly only portraying the way people really can react with surprise at those who are different and that reaction was unpleasant indeed. I loved what Caramba excelled at instead and hope that twist is no longer spoiled!
June 2, 2009
Extremely cute story full of whimsy (flying cats!) and a great message--find your own way and your own interests, don't simply do what all the others "like you" are doing. I'm fast becoming a Marie-Louise Gay fan!
January 5, 2020
On the importance of being yourself.
January 14, 2020
In a world where cats can fly, Caramba cannot fly. Try as he might, he can't do it. When his kitty friends try to teach him, he falls straight into the ocean and miraculously is able to swim like a pro. Lesson being, if you can't do, maybe you can do something else. We all have talents, we just have to find them. At least, that was MY take away. Cute book.
September 13, 2023
Like it or not, this book review has to focus on a conflict.
ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
As you can learn from our trusty Goodreads Blurber, this heartwarming book delivers "a special message of self-acceptance."
You see, Goodreaders, in this fantasy world, all cats are expected to fly. Yet Caramba can't manage that. Ultimately, he does discover a different equivalent. Which makes him special.
No details from this reviewer, sorry. You see, this discovery happens at the end of the book. It would count as a spoiler.
For the sake of the intended audience, who have been rooting for Caramba, of course I'll rate this pretty book, with the pretty sentiment and the pretty pictures, as FIVE STARS.
But here's the deal...
WHAT MADE A MUCH BIGGER IMPRESSION ON ME?
Not the flying. Not the happy ending. But the casual lying by Caramba, and the lack of consequences.
What lying? Here's the first example of many:
[Caramba said he didn't want to fly,] but secretly Caramba did try.
He jumped off a small rock...
and fell flat on his face.
"What are you doing, Caramba?" asked ([his best friend, a pig named] Portia.
"I'm looking for caterpillars," mumbled Caramba, his mouth full of grass.
"For my caterpillar collection."
If that's not a lie -- and a fairly elaborate one -- what is?
MANY FIBS FOLLOW, NEVER WITH ANY CONSEQUENCES
I guess that lying is just part of what makes Caramba so adorable?
Not. To. Me.
I'll add a bit more in a comment below.
ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
As you can learn from our trusty Goodreads Blurber, this heartwarming book delivers "a special message of self-acceptance."
You see, Goodreaders, in this fantasy world, all cats are expected to fly. Yet Caramba can't manage that. Ultimately, he does discover a different equivalent. Which makes him special.
No details from this reviewer, sorry. You see, this discovery happens at the end of the book. It would count as a spoiler.
For the sake of the intended audience, who have been rooting for Caramba, of course I'll rate this pretty book, with the pretty sentiment and the pretty pictures, as FIVE STARS.
But here's the deal...
WHAT MADE A MUCH BIGGER IMPRESSION ON ME?
Not the flying. Not the happy ending. But the casual lying by Caramba, and the lack of consequences.
What lying? Here's the first example of many:
[Caramba said he didn't want to fly,] but secretly Caramba did try.
He jumped off a small rock...
and fell flat on his face.
"What are you doing, Caramba?" asked ([his best friend, a pig named] Portia.
"I'm looking for caterpillars," mumbled Caramba, his mouth full of grass.
"For my caterpillar collection."
If that's not a lie -- and a fairly elaborate one -- what is?
MANY FIBS FOLLOW, NEVER WITH ANY CONSEQUENCES
I guess that lying is just part of what makes Caramba so adorable?
Not. To. Me.
I'll add a bit more in a comment below.
January 23, 2023
A truly wonderful children's book. It starts off stating the main character's typical cat abilities but then states his difference - he couldn't fly. Then you're off discovering all that he tries to do & that other cats do to help & how when he fails at flying he creates alternatives to explain his resultant positions. Definitely a book to help inspire children to think about what makes them unique, to relish their individuality & to hopefully be supportive of differences in others.
October 25, 2023
Livro bonito que através da ideia inventada de que os gatos voam, mostra uma personagem que não o consegue fazer e que se sente inferior por tal acontecer até descobrir qual o seu "dom". Descobre que sabe nadar. trabalha a auto-estima, a criação de identidade, a não comparação e sentimento de pertença mesmo na diferença. Uma amiga que o apoia revela-se essencial neste processo de formação de identidade.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2017
Marie Louise Gay is one of my favourite children's books authors. This was no different. The illustrations here were detailed and soft. And the story was delightful and unexpected. Definitely one to read aloud.
I think secretly, the reason she wrote the book though, was to have a reason to "Ay, Caramba!" to be used in a dialogue...
I think secretly, the reason she wrote the book though, was to have a reason to "Ay, Caramba!" to be used in a dialogue...
July 24, 2018
This was so cute! Caramba was my kind of little kid and I could readily relate to him. Lots of humorous dialogue, adorable illustrations, and a great message. It shows children just because you cannot excel at what everyone else is good at it does not mean that you don't have your own hidden talents. An excellent family read to share.
December 17, 2020
Did you know cats can fly. Yup, I mean all cats but Caramba. He has tried and tried but just can not take flight. But he finds a great alternative in the end. This story was lovely. I love the pastel watercolors. They are vibrant and set off this story so well.
#Wintergames #teamreadnosereindeer +16
#Wintergames #teamreadnosereindeer +16
July 2, 2019
Everyone knows cats can fly, so Caramba wonders what is wrong with him> He's a cat and he can't fly. Neither can his friend Portia, but everyone knows pigs can't fly! This is a funny story, ending with Caramba discovering what he can do that other cats can't. Fun illustrations.
June 7, 2019
Entertaining tale, nicely illustrated
July 30, 2019
Surprising, funny story about being yourself.
January 19, 2021
Caramba seems to be the only cat who cannot fly. He is so sad. Then he learns that he can swim which is something that the other cats can't do. Good moral.
September 3, 2021
Un livre merveilleux, qui a un message simplement essentiel. Histoire adorable, uns des meilleurs livres pour enfant que j’ai su contempler :)
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May 13, 2022i was searching for the name of this book for a frantic 5 minutes of my life
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June 3, 2023This is one my favorite children's books ♥️
March 20, 2024
It’s my childhood book- ofc I had to give it 5 stars! Besides, cats are my favourite animals and Caramba was just so precious to little 6 year old me. Definitely a cherished memory of mine ❤️
October 8, 2017
Summary: Caramba is a cat who feels different because he is the only cat that cannot fly. He has a friend who is a pig named Portia. The other cats make fun of Caramba because he cannot fly, and they make him feel bad about his inability to do what normal cats can do. He tries very hard to fly and fails, but one day the friends take him flying. He falls into the water where he learns an even greater skill- how to swim, which the other cats cannot do.
Theme: The theme is about perseverance and figuring out one's strengths.
Response: I loved Caramba's determination and the way Portia stood up for him against his friend's unkind words. It is neat to see a story starting off negative, and then turn into a positive message at the end.
Recommend because: There will always be children who feel left out or different, but it is important to remind them that they have many strengths that others do not possess, and they are unique. Also, great because students learn how to become a good friend and stick up for their buddies.
Theme: The theme is about perseverance and figuring out one's strengths.
Response: I loved Caramba's determination and the way Portia stood up for him against his friend's unkind words. It is neat to see a story starting off negative, and then turn into a positive message at the end.
Recommend because: There will always be children who feel left out or different, but it is important to remind them that they have many strengths that others do not possess, and they are unique. Also, great because students learn how to become a good friend and stick up for their buddies.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2012
We recently read Caramba and Henry by Marie-Louise Gay and realized that we'd missed the first book, so we decided to borrow this one from our local library, too.
Both are fairly strange tales and although we liked them, we were somewhat puzzled by them. Perhaps it's because the stories were originally written in French, I'm not sure. I was hoping that by reading this book the other would make more sense. It did, but only marginally so.
The illustrations are wonderful and I like that the book tackles the subject of being different from everyone else with sensitivity. I also like that Caramba discovers his own talent, too. We enjoyed reading it together, but I'm glad there are only two books in this series.
Both are fairly strange tales and although we liked them, we were somewhat puzzled by them. Perhaps it's because the stories were originally written in French, I'm not sure. I was hoping that by reading this book the other would make more sense. It did, but only marginally so.
The illustrations are wonderful and I like that the book tackles the subject of being different from everyone else with sensitivity. I also like that Caramba discovers his own talent, too. We enjoyed reading it together, but I'm glad there are only two books in this series.
February 27, 2014
A pure joy to read, over and over again.
Marie - Louise Gay has done it again, capturing the essence of the characters and message she is writing about and delivering them through beautiful illustrations.
Caramba the cat wants to fly like all the other cats, as they do in this story but simply cannot, despite the enormous effort. Caramba does, quite by accident discover that swimming delivers the experience of flying and is something all the other cats cannot do.
An extraordinary tale to help your little person find their unique gift, even when they can't do what everyone else is doing and discover their own freedom.
My daughter and I love 'Caramba.'
Marie - Louise Gay has done it again, capturing the essence of the characters and message she is writing about and delivering them through beautiful illustrations.
Caramba the cat wants to fly like all the other cats, as they do in this story but simply cannot, despite the enormous effort. Caramba does, quite by accident discover that swimming delivers the experience of flying and is something all the other cats cannot do.
An extraordinary tale to help your little person find their unique gift, even when they can't do what everyone else is doing and discover their own freedom.
My daughter and I love 'Caramba.'
April 27, 2012
A charming story about a cat named Caramba who cannot fly. (Apparently cats can fly). Caramba explains his predicament to his friend Portia, a pig. Caramba's cousins overhear that he can't fly and make fun of him. They decide to help him learn but with some surprising results. Caramba may not be able to fly, but he can swim! The illustrations are sweet with lots of soft blues and greens. Caramba is smal bodied with a large head, absolutely adorable.
November 29, 2010
Daughter was given this one the other day at her school and I didn't think there was any Marie-Louise Gay that we hadn't read, but it turns out this one was new to us. Lovely little story of a cat who longs to fly in a world where all cats fly. He tries and tries and tries and eventually is okay with difference. Cute message, great characters.
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November 28, 2011Pig's cannot fly, but cats can! In this book, Caramba is faced witht he challenege of flying like all of the other cats, but he cannot. He does, however, know how to swim. This can be used to talk about acceptance and knowing that not everyone is able to do something. Also, this book can be used for predicting whether or not Caramba will actually fly.
July 14, 2012
The most fun part of reading this book is when Caramba says he's sad because all cats fly but he can't and my kids said, "That's not true. No cats fly" and the next page stated, "It was true. Soon after they learned to walk, young cats would begin to fly." My children replied, "Hmph" in disbelief but then really got into the story. The pictures with cats flying helped.
August 26, 2013
So Caramba is actually a word we use in Spanish and it would be equivalent to saying damn but it's softer word still. I think the book is hilarious cause how is it possible that a car cannot swim? I mean everyone does it right?
I think for the PYP is a great book risk-taker and open-minded. And it looks like a great read aloud.
I think for the PYP is a great book risk-taker and open-minded. And it looks like a great read aloud.
February 4, 2009
By the same author as the Sam and Stella series. Nice soft illustrations with extra details on each page. Same nice sense of matter of fact wonder as in Sam and Stella. Of course, everyone knows cats can fly, except poor Caramba. 5 and 2 year old both liked it as well.
June 6, 2012
Age: 1st - 3rd grade
Cute concept where cats can fly, but not poor Caramba. Accompanied with soft illustrations, the humor is suitable for grades 1-3 but the listeners should be introduced to the possibility of cats flying because this story jumps right in as if it was common knowledge.
Cute concept where cats can fly, but not poor Caramba. Accompanied with soft illustrations, the humor is suitable for grades 1-3 but the listeners should be introduced to the possibility of cats flying because this story jumps right in as if it was common knowledge.
March 21, 2013
The Storytime kids (ages 0-5) were initially confused about the assertion that cats can fly. Once we established that it was pretend, they got right into the story. The use of 'yelled', 'cried', 'whispered' allowed for some creative out loud voices.
February 22, 2014
The premise is absurd (all cats fly) but the story arc is universal. Not feeling "good enough", hiding fears, reluctance to ask for help, and the power of friendship all shine through the amusing plot and the wry twists. Kids will love it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews