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Ava and Pip #2
Ava and Taco Cat
Ava desperately wants a pet for her eleventh birthday-but gets way more than she bargained for when she adopts T-A-C-O-C-A-T.
When Ava Wren hears about an injured yellow tabby with mismatched ears, she becomes obsessed and wants to rescue him. She even picks out a perfect palindromic name: T-A-C-O-C-A-T. But when Taco joins the family, he doesn't snuggle or purr-all he does is hide. Worse, Ava's best friend starts hanging out with Zara, a new girl in fifth grade. Ava feels alone and writes an acclaimed story, "The Cat Who Wouldn't Purr." What begins as exciting news turns into a disaster. How can Ava make things right? And what about sweet, scared little Taco?
The New York Times called AVA AND PIP "a love letter to language. " With this second diary, Girls' Life advice columnist Carol Weston hits another home run.
When Ava Wren hears about an injured yellow tabby with mismatched ears, she becomes obsessed and wants to rescue him. She even picks out a perfect palindromic name: T-A-C-O-C-A-T. But when Taco joins the family, he doesn't snuggle or purr-all he does is hide. Worse, Ava's best friend starts hanging out with Zara, a new girl in fifth grade. Ava feels alone and writes an acclaimed story, "The Cat Who Wouldn't Purr." What begins as exciting news turns into a disaster. How can Ava make things right? And what about sweet, scared little Taco?
The New York Times called AVA AND PIP "a love letter to language. " With this second diary, Girls' Life advice columnist Carol Weston hits another home run.
240 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2015
47 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Carol Weston
25 books89 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Carol's newest novel, SPEED OF LIFE, is for ages 11+ Starred reviews: Kirkus, PW, Booklist, SLJ. New York Times: "perceptive, funny, and moving." Newbery medalist Richard Peck calls it "wonderful." Julia Alvarez says, "You won't want to put it down." Carol is also the author of AVA AND PIP, AVA AND TACO CAT and AVA XOX, (Sourcebooks Jabberwocky), a series about a fifth grade "word nerd." NYTBR says AVA AND PIP is "about sisterhood, but it's also a love letter to language." (nyti.ms/1ggyDHV) Carol has been "Dear Carol" at Girls' Life since 1994. Her first book, GIRLTALK (HarperCollins) was translated into 12 languages. A Yale grad with an M.A. from Middlebury, Carol has been a guest on Today and The View and loves visiting schools. The author of The Diary of Melanie Martin series (Knopf), her fan page is: www.facebook.com/writercarolweston. She posts helpful videos at www.youtube.com/girltalkwithcarol. She and her husband live in NYC, and have two daughters and a cat. twitter.com/carol_weston
Carol's newest novel, SPEED OF LIFE, is for ages 11+ Starred reviews: Kirkus, PW, Booklist, SLJ. New York Times: "perceptive, funny, and moving." Newbery medalist Richard Peck calls it "wonderful." Julia Alvarez says, "You won't want to put it down." Carol is also the author of AVA AND PIP, AVA AND TACO CAT and AVA XOX, (Sourcebooks Jabberwocky), a series about a fifth grade "word nerd." NYTBR says AVA AND PIP is "about sisterhood, but it's also a love letter to language." (nyti.ms/1ggyDHV) Carol has been "Dear Carol" at Girls' Life since 1994. Her first book, GIRLTALK (HarperCollins) was translated into 12 languages. A Yale grad with an M.A. from Middlebury, Carol has been a guest on Today and The View and loves visiting schools. The author of The Diary of Melanie Martin series (Knopf), her fan page is: www.facebook.com/writercarolweston. She posts helpful videos at www.youtube.com/girltalkwithcarol. She and her husband live in NYC, and have two daughters and a cat. twitter.com/carol_weston
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
June 6, 2015
Huge thank you to Sourcebooks Jabberwocky and Netgalley for this ARC!
I was a huge fan of Carol Weston's Ava and Pip last year. I thought it was just such a fantastic and humorous portrayal of sisterhood. Colour me surprised when I found out that Carol had wrote a sequel, this time about Ava and her new cat companion, Taco Cat.
Once again, Carol Weston does this amazing job of putting us in the mind of a young girl, and she keeps Ava in character. Sometimes it's awkward to read first-person middle grade books because sometimes characters read slightly older than they should be, but I feel like book is spot on. A lot of this story revolves around Ava's relationship with others, and a lot of the book just made me smile.
There's one bit in the story that really hit close to home: when I was Ava's age, there was a girl in my class who I felt was totally trying to take my best friend away from me. I remembered I ended up being bullied by that girl (she left me messages telling me how my bestfriend hated me, etc). Thankfully the book doesn't go that far, but it's interesting to see how Ava handles her jealousy and frustrations, and I loved that Maybelle doesn't entirely let he get away with the behaviour either. Still, I knew full well how Ava felt, and I actually did feel sorry for her. But I also was pleased by the resolve for that situation.
And then there is Taco Cat. My goodness, he's a wonderful feline companion. He has a lot of personality and spark. I love that he provides Ava and her family so much comfort, and it's true that pets just have this magical way of brightening up your life and making you smile without effort. It's also why losing a pet is so hard as well -- the instant love and gratification is gone.
The only thing that disappointed me a bit, was the lack of Pip. She was there, but she didn't have as much of a presence as I was hoping. We need more Pip!
Once again, I loved this book, and I love that Carol Weston gives younger readers lots to ponder as the book progresses. I am only imagine what Ava and Pip's next adventure is going to be like. This book was fun, thoughtful, and just such a great read. If you have children or you like sweet middle grade, this book is for you.
I was a huge fan of Carol Weston's Ava and Pip last year. I thought it was just such a fantastic and humorous portrayal of sisterhood. Colour me surprised when I found out that Carol had wrote a sequel, this time about Ava and her new cat companion, Taco Cat.
Once again, Carol Weston does this amazing job of putting us in the mind of a young girl, and she keeps Ava in character. Sometimes it's awkward to read first-person middle grade books because sometimes characters read slightly older than they should be, but I feel like book is spot on. A lot of this story revolves around Ava's relationship with others, and a lot of the book just made me smile.
There's one bit in the story that really hit close to home: when I was Ava's age, there was a girl in my class who I felt was totally trying to take my best friend away from me. I remembered I ended up being bullied by that girl (she left me messages telling me how my bestfriend hated me, etc). Thankfully the book doesn't go that far, but it's interesting to see how Ava handles her jealousy and frustrations, and I loved that Maybelle doesn't entirely let he get away with the behaviour either. Still, I knew full well how Ava felt, and I actually did feel sorry for her. But I also was pleased by the resolve for that situation.
And then there is Taco Cat. My goodness, he's a wonderful feline companion. He has a lot of personality and spark. I love that he provides Ava and her family so much comfort, and it's true that pets just have this magical way of brightening up your life and making you smile without effort. It's also why losing a pet is so hard as well -- the instant love and gratification is gone.
The only thing that disappointed me a bit, was the lack of Pip. She was there, but she didn't have as much of a presence as I was hoping. We need more Pip!
Once again, I loved this book, and I love that Carol Weston gives younger readers lots to ponder as the book progresses. I am only imagine what Ava and Pip's next adventure is going to be like. This book was fun, thoughtful, and just such a great read. If you have children or you like sweet middle grade, this book is for you.
Read
August 23, 2018Just finished reading this with my 8-year-old daughter who suggested we rate it "100 stars" instead of just five. :)
Here's her review:
It's a really good book and I really liked it. It's sad and happy. But it's really good. It's a good story and has fun palindromes in it. LLAMA MALL is a palindrome. READ THIS BOOK!
**second reading with my son who loved this book just as much. Lots of giggles, a few tears. Such a sweet story
Here's her review:
It's a really good book and I really liked it. It's sad and happy. But it's really good. It's a good story and has fun palindromes in it. LLAMA MALL is a palindrome. READ THIS BOOK!
**second reading with my son who loved this book just as much. Lots of giggles, a few tears. Such a sweet story
June 14, 2015
All Ava Wren wants for her eleventh birthday is a cat. In particular, she wants the injured honey-colored cat that she heard about from her mother, who works at the vet's office. Ava's parents give in and get her the cat, which she names Taco Cat because it's a palindrome name. Ava loves palindromes and word games; she and her sister Pip are, as Pip says, "word nerds". In fact, they're writing a book together called Alphabet Fish. When an author who is visiting her class agrees to look at the book, Ava is hopeful that it will be published. That doesn't happen. However, Ava makes front page news with a brief story she wrote about Taco.
Written in diary form, this is a feel-good story about pet ownership, friendship, family, and sisterhood. Ava's narrative voice is very authentic; exactly the way an eleven-year-old who is obsessed with her pet should sound. Readers will also pick up some fun facts about various topics, especially language-related ones, because Ava likes to write about such intellectual details in her diary.
Ava and Taco Cat is very similar to Rain Reign by Ann Martin. Instead of a dog, it has a cat, and instead of homonyms, Ava is obsessed with palindromes, but the basic plot is similar. The tone is lighter because Ava's family situation is much more comfortable than Rose's and because Ava, unlike Rose, is not on the autism spectrum. Nonetheless, the two books are definitely read-alikes, especially if the appeal is animal stories.
Written in diary form, this is a feel-good story about pet ownership, friendship, family, and sisterhood. Ava's narrative voice is very authentic; exactly the way an eleven-year-old who is obsessed with her pet should sound. Readers will also pick up some fun facts about various topics, especially language-related ones, because Ava likes to write about such intellectual details in her diary.
Ava and Taco Cat is very similar to Rain Reign by Ann Martin. Instead of a dog, it has a cat, and instead of homonyms, Ava is obsessed with palindromes, but the basic plot is similar. The tone is lighter because Ava's family situation is much more comfortable than Rose's and because Ava, unlike Rose, is not on the autism spectrum. Nonetheless, the two books are definitely read-alikes, especially if the appeal is animal stories.
July 22, 2019
Really cute book. I loved the word play and the reaction to losing a cat was completely realistic. Cute, fast read. I think middle grade animal lovers would enjoy this book. 4 solid stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2017
Taco Cat was a recommendation to me from some 4th grade girls. It was delightful! Love the artistic collaborations between Ava and Pip. Reminds me of me with my sis, Andee, at their ages. Love their close word-nerd family - like mine :) Love the creative writing theme! Love that several background characters, like the front desk woman at the mom's vet office and Mr. Ramirez - the school librarian, are gay and it's no big deal. Reading up on Carol Weston, I've learned that she is a super classy lady. I want to read more by her!
April 24, 2017
I did not read the first Ava and Pip book, but had no problem following this story. This is a cute series for girls (9 - 12) about siblings, writing, being creative, looking for your stengths, friendship and more. The family loves words and language. They especially love palindromes, words that spell the same forward and backward. Their father is a playwrite and he encourages his daughters to use their strengths.
Ava is turning 11 and wants a pet, not any pet, but the honey coloured cat that her mother told them about. The cat had been brought into the vet's office where her mother works, possibly after being attacked by a coyote. It has been turned over to the Animal Rescue and Ava wants her family to adopt him. Her parents finally agree with her and Pip and they head to the Animal Rescue to adopt the cat. Ava names him Taco Cat, because of his colour and the fact that it is a palindrome. The problem is that when they get Taco Cat home, he is completely anti-social. He hides under the couch for days and Ava begins to think she has made the wrong decision about getting this cat. While this is going on, Ava is having a personal dilemma. Her BFF has befriended the new girl, Zara, and Ava feels that they are drifting apart. Not only that, but Zara has caused a rift between Ava and Chuck, another friend. With Ava not feeling great about everything, Pip tries to cheer her up and keep her occupied by creating a book called, Alphabet Fish. Ava writes the poems while Pip does the illustrations. As the story goes on, Ava has a lot of decisions to make, some of them tougher than others, but she learns about friendship and about doing the right thing. This is a great book for a school, classroom, or child's library.
Ava is turning 11 and wants a pet, not any pet, but the honey coloured cat that her mother told them about. The cat had been brought into the vet's office where her mother works, possibly after being attacked by a coyote. It has been turned over to the Animal Rescue and Ava wants her family to adopt him. Her parents finally agree with her and Pip and they head to the Animal Rescue to adopt the cat. Ava names him Taco Cat, because of his colour and the fact that it is a palindrome. The problem is that when they get Taco Cat home, he is completely anti-social. He hides under the couch for days and Ava begins to think she has made the wrong decision about getting this cat. While this is going on, Ava is having a personal dilemma. Her BFF has befriended the new girl, Zara, and Ava feels that they are drifting apart. Not only that, but Zara has caused a rift between Ava and Chuck, another friend. With Ava not feeling great about everything, Pip tries to cheer her up and keep her occupied by creating a book called, Alphabet Fish. Ava writes the poems while Pip does the illustrations. As the story goes on, Ava has a lot of decisions to make, some of them tougher than others, but she learns about friendship and about doing the right thing. This is a great book for a school, classroom, or child's library.
Read
July 7, 2020Ava and Taco cat, the second in a series of three, is a diary of fifth-grader Ava. She adopts a sweet kitty and names him TacoCat, a palindrome. Ava finds palindromes very fascinating. You will see lots of them throughout the novel.
Ava’s new cat seems scared of her, and won’t warm up to her or her family. As a bonus, her friend seems to have found, ahem, ANOTHER friend. Will she eventually get along with her new cat and new friend? You’ll find out by reading this amazing book.
Even though it is a series, I personally did not know that when I first read this book. I was able to enjoy it even though it’s the second book. The author refers to some events in the first book, but they are not too relevant to the plot.
-N
Ava’s new cat seems scared of her, and won’t warm up to her or her family. As a bonus, her friend seems to have found, ahem, ANOTHER friend. Will she eventually get along with her new cat and new friend? You’ll find out by reading this amazing book.
Even though it is a series, I personally did not know that when I first read this book. I was able to enjoy it even though it’s the second book. The author refers to some events in the first book, but they are not too relevant to the plot.
-N
Read
May 26, 2023the palindromification of my life because of this book was insane. i also remember a part of this series where her friend zoe gets her period and it's this whole thing idek.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2016
Received this book from the publisher on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars.
I was so delighted when I found out that we were getting a new book about Ava, as I said in my review for the first book, I was hoping for a sequel! And we did!
This time it is about Ava's new cat, how she got him and how she took care of him. But, that is not the only thing it talks about. It talks about growing up (since Ava is slowly reaching puberty and it also talks about things like periods and about kissing and boys), about friendship and especially when your best friend makes a new friend. A friend who isn't all too nice at times. It is also about sisters and it was really fun to see Pip again.
Ava is still a wonderful character, and I can just see her grow, not only from a kid to a teenager, but also mentally. You can see she is getting smarter and wiser with each day. And she is a very sweet character, she cares a whole lot about her friends, and worries about her relationships with them.
I loved how she handled Taco Cat, loved how she gave him space, but also tried to coax him out of hiding and show him that he has a new loving family.
It was fun to see her write things again. For most of the book it is an Alphabet book with fish as main characters. Illustrations by Pip and Rhymes by Ava. I wish I could see the book, I would love to see Pip's illustrations, they sound like small masterpieces. But Ava also writes a short story.
I had a laugh about her ways to get her parents to get Taco Cat, planting mice drawings everywhere? Perfect idea!
Ava's parents are still great parents and I like how they raise their kids. Pip was great again, though I am sad to see that from shy she went to a real teenager with a boyfriend and also the temper to match.
We have 2 new characters. Gretchen and Zara. I didn't like Gretchen, at all. I think she was pretty rude to just demand all that. No, just no. Ava and her family adopted the cat, they have papers, and it is all nice and all that the woman is the original owner, but you can't just demand the cat back. Not like that. It is ridiculous. And it made me just so angry. So I can't give the book the 5 stars I was planning to. I also didn't particularly like how the situation was solved. It was a bit too easy and too silly. A typical children's book solution and one that I hoped wouldn't be used.
Zara was a nosy brat, and for most of the book I really disliked her and all the stuff she said. How she came between Chuck and Ava and had them have the most awkward days of their lives together. Near the end I saw a different side of her and I started to change my opinion on her, but only a little bit. I still didn't like her much.
Taco Cat was a wonderful cat, it was quite realistic and interesting to see how he started off so afraid, but slowly warmed up and came out of his shell.
This book features a bunch of palindromes and other fun word plays + also long words and their definitions, which I am sure kids will find interesting to read about, and I have to say that while there were still a lot of palindromes I didn't feel like it was too much. Maybe I got used to it with the previous book, or maybe the author decided to switch around with things and bring a bit more diversity.
I didn't really like the Aesop's fables. I mostly know them already, and I don't find them interesting enough to read again. It is fun that it was added, and I am sure kids would like them, but I just couldn't like them.
All in all, I liked the book and I do hope that we will see more of Ava in the future.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
4.5 stars.
I was so delighted when I found out that we were getting a new book about Ava, as I said in my review for the first book, I was hoping for a sequel! And we did!
This time it is about Ava's new cat, how she got him and how she took care of him. But, that is not the only thing it talks about. It talks about growing up (since Ava is slowly reaching puberty and it also talks about things like periods and about kissing and boys), about friendship and especially when your best friend makes a new friend. A friend who isn't all too nice at times. It is also about sisters and it was really fun to see Pip again.
Ava is still a wonderful character, and I can just see her grow, not only from a kid to a teenager, but also mentally. You can see she is getting smarter and wiser with each day. And she is a very sweet character, she cares a whole lot about her friends, and worries about her relationships with them.
I loved how she handled Taco Cat, loved how she gave him space, but also tried to coax him out of hiding and show him that he has a new loving family.
It was fun to see her write things again. For most of the book it is an Alphabet book with fish as main characters. Illustrations by Pip and Rhymes by Ava. I wish I could see the book, I would love to see Pip's illustrations, they sound like small masterpieces. But Ava also writes a short story.
I had a laugh about her ways to get her parents to get Taco Cat, planting mice drawings everywhere? Perfect idea!
Ava's parents are still great parents and I like how they raise their kids. Pip was great again, though I am sad to see that from shy she went to a real teenager with a boyfriend and also the temper to match.
We have 2 new characters. Gretchen and Zara. I didn't like Gretchen, at all. I think she was pretty rude to just demand all that. No, just no. Ava and her family adopted the cat, they have papers, and it is all nice and all that the woman is the original owner, but you can't just demand the cat back. Not like that. It is ridiculous. And it made me just so angry. So I can't give the book the 5 stars I was planning to. I also didn't particularly like how the situation was solved. It was a bit too easy and too silly. A typical children's book solution and one that I hoped wouldn't be used.
Zara was a nosy brat, and for most of the book I really disliked her and all the stuff she said. How she came between Chuck and Ava and had them have the most awkward days of their lives together. Near the end I saw a different side of her and I started to change my opinion on her, but only a little bit. I still didn't like her much.
Taco Cat was a wonderful cat, it was quite realistic and interesting to see how he started off so afraid, but slowly warmed up and came out of his shell.
This book features a bunch of palindromes and other fun word plays + also long words and their definitions, which I am sure kids will find interesting to read about, and I have to say that while there were still a lot of palindromes I didn't feel like it was too much. Maybe I got used to it with the previous book, or maybe the author decided to switch around with things and bring a bit more diversity.
I didn't really like the Aesop's fables. I mostly know them already, and I don't find them interesting enough to read again. It is fun that it was added, and I am sure kids would like them, but I just couldn't like them.
All in all, I liked the book and I do hope that we will see more of Ava in the future.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
February 14, 2016
I received Ava and Taco Cat from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
How’s this for timing? My cat Brigitta died the day after I downloaded Ava and Taco Cat for review in January. She was 15 and I knew she was sick and getting worse and we had been to the vet for bloodwork that day, so I knew there was a possibility she wouldn’t live much longer. But I had resigned myself to the realization that she wouldn’t be with us next Christmas. I wasn’t prepared to say goodbye the next day.
So I wasn’t able to bring myself to read Ava and Taco Cat until now. Probably the only reason I did read it now is that I also have the next book in the series for review and it came out on Tuesday. I’ll be reading that next and (hopefully) reviewing it next week. Better a little late than a lot late, I guess.
Just like Ava and Pip, the first book in the series, Ava and Taco Cat is written as Ava’s diary. Some of the things that bothered me about Ava and Pip, such as the overuse of wordplay, didn’t phase me in Ava and Taco Cat. While they’re still present, maybe it’s because I knew to expect them. Or maybe I was just too focused on the subject matter.
Ava and Taco Cat made me smile and it made me cry. It also made me remember when Brigitta was a kitten and first came to live with us. Brigitta adjusted much more easily than Taco, but that may be because she had a companion, her sister Liesl. (Liesl sat on the back of my chair the whole time I read Ava and Taco Cat.) I enjoyed reading about Ava’s efforts to integrate Taco into the family, and the way the whole family (even reluctant Mom) grows to love Taco.
Ava’s life isn’t only centered around her new pet, though. She’s writing a book with her sister and, like many middle grade characters (and their real-life counterparts), she’s also growing more concerned about her best friend Maybelle spending more time with a new girl and showing more interesting in nail polish and bras. Ava’s just not into that, but she doesn’t want to be left behind. The way she handles it is consistent with the character from Ava and Pip.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book about Ava, Pip, and all their friends and family. I hope Taco has a part too!
How’s this for timing? My cat Brigitta died the day after I downloaded Ava and Taco Cat for review in January. She was 15 and I knew she was sick and getting worse and we had been to the vet for bloodwork that day, so I knew there was a possibility she wouldn’t live much longer. But I had resigned myself to the realization that she wouldn’t be with us next Christmas. I wasn’t prepared to say goodbye the next day.
So I wasn’t able to bring myself to read Ava and Taco Cat until now. Probably the only reason I did read it now is that I also have the next book in the series for review and it came out on Tuesday. I’ll be reading that next and (hopefully) reviewing it next week. Better a little late than a lot late, I guess.
Just like Ava and Pip, the first book in the series, Ava and Taco Cat is written as Ava’s diary. Some of the things that bothered me about Ava and Pip, such as the overuse of wordplay, didn’t phase me in Ava and Taco Cat. While they’re still present, maybe it’s because I knew to expect them. Or maybe I was just too focused on the subject matter.
Ava and Taco Cat made me smile and it made me cry. It also made me remember when Brigitta was a kitten and first came to live with us. Brigitta adjusted much more easily than Taco, but that may be because she had a companion, her sister Liesl. (Liesl sat on the back of my chair the whole time I read Ava and Taco Cat.) I enjoyed reading about Ava’s efforts to integrate Taco into the family, and the way the whole family (even reluctant Mom) grows to love Taco.
Ava’s life isn’t only centered around her new pet, though. She’s writing a book with her sister and, like many middle grade characters (and their real-life counterparts), she’s also growing more concerned about her best friend Maybelle spending more time with a new girl and showing more interesting in nail polish and bras. Ava’s just not into that, but she doesn’t want to be left behind. The way she handles it is consistent with the character from Ava and Pip.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book about Ava, Pip, and all their friends and family. I hope Taco has a part too!
July 6, 2017
"I started thinking about words on screen vs. words in books. Like, with texting or Facebook, you can read what people are thinking right that very second. But with books, you can read what people took ages to think about."
Ava's mother comes home talking about a cat that was brought into the vet clinic. After hearing the sad story, Ava immediately knows that they should take this cat in. Her mother resists, not wanting to have any animals around the house. But Pip and Ava sneak into the pound where the cat has been taken. "Our eyes met and my heart melted." From that moment on, Ava is determined to bring Taco cat (a palindrome) into their lives.
But as she focuses on this part of her life, she begins to notice that other parts of her life aren't the same. Best friend Maybelle seems to be hanging around with Zara a lot. "It just hurts when your old friend makes new friends." Ava doesn't like Zara's outspoken, almost pushy, personality. She feels herself further away from Maybelle and she's not sure what to do. Then Zara manages to drive a wedge between Ava and Chuck, as well.
Why does life have to be so complicated? Or is Ava just making it more complicated? "Sometimes I wish I had a remote control for my brain so I could change the channel and not think about things I don't want to think about." Can the solution really be as simple as being honest with a friend? "Some big events are kind of small ... like when two friends clear the air."
A good friendship story. I love the word play that the family enjoys creating. Ava is a spunky character and continues to grow in her knowledge of how to be a good friend and a good writer.
Ava's mother comes home talking about a cat that was brought into the vet clinic. After hearing the sad story, Ava immediately knows that they should take this cat in. Her mother resists, not wanting to have any animals around the house. But Pip and Ava sneak into the pound where the cat has been taken. "Our eyes met and my heart melted." From that moment on, Ava is determined to bring Taco cat (a palindrome) into their lives.
But as she focuses on this part of her life, she begins to notice that other parts of her life aren't the same. Best friend Maybelle seems to be hanging around with Zara a lot. "It just hurts when your old friend makes new friends." Ava doesn't like Zara's outspoken, almost pushy, personality. She feels herself further away from Maybelle and she's not sure what to do. Then Zara manages to drive a wedge between Ava and Chuck, as well.
Why does life have to be so complicated? Or is Ava just making it more complicated? "Sometimes I wish I had a remote control for my brain so I could change the channel and not think about things I don't want to think about." Can the solution really be as simple as being honest with a friend? "Some big events are kind of small ... like when two friends clear the air."
A good friendship story. I love the word play that the family enjoys creating. Ava is a spunky character and continues to grow in her knowledge of how to be a good friend and a good writer.
November 18, 2015
Carol Weston has a way of making language and writing fun for middle grade aged kids. She does it again in Ava and Taco Cat. Ava once again shows how big her heart and mind are when she adopts a quirky cat which she names T-A-C-O-C-A-T because it makes the perfect palindrome.
What a fun way to incorporate aspects of language and writing into a story for middle grade kids. Ava wanting to adopt Taco Cat despite his dramatic past is sweet and encouraging and I think a good message for kids. Taco is shy and does nothing but hide so Ava decides to write a story about her cat that never purrs.
Ava is also dealing with other drama that a normal 5th grader would face including trouble with her best friend. She is finding out how to navigate all of these new changes in her life and I think despite a few stumbles she really comes around and inspires the reader to be better too.
Overall, a phenomenal collections of middle grade stories told through the importance of writing and language and with a tenacious main character that you can't help but love.
I will say that I do see these stories appealing more to a female reader than a male reader but they are definitely age appropriate and cover a wide range of topics and introduce children to social issues such as bullying, body shaming, pet adoption, friendship, family, and so much more.
I couldn't suggest this series with any more praise. It is wonderful.
****I received both Ava and Taco Cat and Ava XOX from netgalley.com and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
What a fun way to incorporate aspects of language and writing into a story for middle grade kids. Ava wanting to adopt Taco Cat despite his dramatic past is sweet and encouraging and I think a good message for kids. Taco is shy and does nothing but hide so Ava decides to write a story about her cat that never purrs.
Ava is also dealing with other drama that a normal 5th grader would face including trouble with her best friend. She is finding out how to navigate all of these new changes in her life and I think despite a few stumbles she really comes around and inspires the reader to be better too.
Overall, a phenomenal collections of middle grade stories told through the importance of writing and language and with a tenacious main character that you can't help but love.
I will say that I do see these stories appealing more to a female reader than a male reader but they are definitely age appropriate and cover a wide range of topics and introduce children to social issues such as bullying, body shaming, pet adoption, friendship, family, and so much more.
I couldn't suggest this series with any more praise. It is wonderful.
****I received both Ava and Taco Cat and Ava XOX from netgalley.com and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2015
Second book in the series and I liked it even better. Ava has always wanted a pet, so when her mom comes home one day from the vet clinic where she works and tells the family about an injured cat that was brought in, Ava somehow knows that this animal is meant to be hers. Conveniently enough her birthday is just a few days away, so she begs and pleads and tells her parents that she doesn't want anything other than the cat. At first her parents, especially her mom, are reluctant, but the whole family soon falls in love with Taco Cat (which, of course, is a palindrome - Ava still loves them). Taco is slow to get used to the noisy Wren family, and Ava is disappointed that he doesn't immediately want to cuddle. At the same time, another girl at school seems to be moving in on Ava's best friend Maybelle. Ava writes a poem about her new pet and is thrilled when it is featured on the front page of the local paper, along with a photo of her and Taco. But what started out as fun soon turns to disaster. This book will be enjoyed by all who read the first, and also by cat lovers and word lovers. Recommended for grades 4 and 5.
March 7, 2016
As a cat lover this tale moved me to tears a lot. Ava is definitely besotted with Tacao cat, I felt her heartache when Taco Cat wouldn't go anywhere near her or her family: I have a rescue cat who can be quite anti-social, which is hard when all I (& Ava) want to do is hold her (& Taco Cat) close and show how much we love them. Her obsession with palindromes was fun to read about, it was her coping mechanism for all the obstacles she had to face.
It was hard to see Ava struggle with Pip's friendship being extended to someone else – I remember I'd always wanted a special friend, and sharing a friend can be hard because you can be left out of exciting adventures. I promise everything works out in the end, and I look forward to read more about Ava and Taco Cat!
I received a copy on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review on my blog Nayu's Reading Corner http://nayusreadingcorner.blogspot.co...
It was hard to see Ava struggle with Pip's friendship being extended to someone else – I remember I'd always wanted a special friend, and sharing a friend can be hard because you can be left out of exciting adventures. I promise everything works out in the end, and I look forward to read more about Ava and Taco Cat!
I received a copy on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review on my blog Nayu's Reading Corner http://nayusreadingcorner.blogspot.co...
May 7, 2015
This was much cuter than I had predicted it would be. I love that each of the characters stand out and have their own issues, but it's none of them are too unrealistic so kids will still be able to relate to it.
My one gripe is that it is written a bit babyish, possibly geared toward a third grade girl audience, but the girl is in fifth grade and mentions uncomfortable things like boobs and kissing. It just so easily could've been left out… I think many of my fifth-graders would roll their eyes at this but my third grade girls would absolutely adore Ava and TacoCat. Wish a little bit of content would have been skipped, but I may be showing my very conservative side here. :-)
My one gripe is that it is written a bit babyish, possibly geared toward a third grade girl audience, but the girl is in fifth grade and mentions uncomfortable things like boobs and kissing. It just so easily could've been left out… I think many of my fifth-graders would roll their eyes at this but my third grade girls would absolutely adore Ava and TacoCat. Wish a little bit of content would have been skipped, but I may be showing my very conservative side here. :-)
March 13, 2016
Charming story and actually the second book in the Ava and Pip series, but my first encounter with Ava. I love her chatty, outspoken and warm personality. I have always enjoyed books written in diary format and know that many of my primary students do too. It seems I never have enough recommendations and look forward to putting this series into the hands of my readers. I have no doubt, the books will be a success. As a cat lover, I was especially fond of this book. One of my favorite places in the book is of course, Bates Books, and just like Ava, I like the idea of getting stranded in a bookshop like this overnight.
December 31, 2016
I read this aloud to my 6 and 8 year old daughters. We all liked it. I knocked off a star because I didn't like all the talk of school-age romance and periods. I would not expect a book about a fifth-grader to discuss periods! My girls don't know any of that yet and I wasn't ready to bring it up, so I edited those parts out as I read. I wasn't crazy about all the friendship drama either. The story about adopting the cat was very nice, though. And the "situation" near the end provided a great opportunity to teach my girls about seeing things from a different perspective. I really liked that. This book had my girls both LOLing and crying in just a few minutes' space. I like that in a book.
April 19, 2015
This was a delightful book that I devoured in just one weekend! The palindromes and word-nerd trivia were so interesting that I couldn't wait to find the next one. The issues that Ava faces will resonate with readers of all ages and I think we can all learn from her triumphs and tribulation. Great read!
June 12, 2015
Ava and Taco Cat by Carol Weston – Realistic Fiction – what a wonderful celebration of poetry through this book… and a beautiful story about good intentions and tough decisions. I appreciated the storyline about how a friend is branching out and making new friends
“If I ever had to be stuck-stranded!-overnight somewhere and I could pick where, I would definitely pick a cozy bookstore.”
“If I ever had to be stuck-stranded!-overnight somewhere and I could pick where, I would definitely pick a cozy bookstore.”
June 17, 2015
what a charming little book. Ava finally gets the Pet she has been wanting when her family rescues a cat. but the cat Taco is not what she expected he is aloof and skittish. Ava needs someone in her life because she feels he best friend is slipping away form her. If you love stories with cats in them you will most likely enjoy this book.
October 30, 2015
A beautiful work of literature. I love the ending about "when you're generous, it comes back to you." Also all the Palindromes at the end were great too.
This book would compliment A Snicker of Magic, also an inspiring piece of literature about loving words and finding a place to call home.
This book would compliment A Snicker of Magic, also an inspiring piece of literature about loving words and finding a place to call home.
June 21, 2016
Ava is back and this time she has a cat. Always great fun to read someone's diary and Ava has lots to write!
May 16, 2015
A cute engaging story that is educational, too. My students loved the palindromes and began thinking of new ones all the time.
September 3, 2015
Cute, clever, and a wonderful sequel to Ava and Pip. A list of palindromes at the back is a bonus! Young readers will love reading about Ava and her family and friends once more.
January 21, 2016
I really love this series and this author. i recommend this book for anyone who likes animals and word humor.
May 4, 2016
Written entirely in diary entries by a girl obsessed with palindromes and other wordplay . . . and her newly adopted cat. Sequel to Ava and Pip.
August 16, 2015
Great story I would totally read this book again!!!!!!!
November 21, 2022
I read the first book in the Ava and Pip trilogy many years ago, when my kids were very young. Now that My daughter is 10 years old, I felt like it was time I revisit it, especially since there are two other books in the series that were not around when I reviewed the first book!
Ava and Taco Cat by Carol Weston (Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, 2015 ) is written in journal form and picks up right when the previous diary end. Ava turns eleven right at the beginning of the book, and she begs for a cat as a birthday present. Ava and Taco Cat focuses on Ava’s experiences with her new cat, but even more, it is a story about Ava coming to terms with what friendship really means to her.
It is so hard being eleven years old. I remember being confused with friends who wanted to come over but didn’t want to talk to me in school. It was so confusing! Ava also feels confused when her long-time best friend begins spending time with another friend.
Even the Taco Cat theme echoes these thoughts. Ava is so excited to be there for her rescued cat, but his shyness and inability to warm up to Ava’s family become Ava’s biggest concern. Why won’t he like her? Especially when she’s being so nice and loving! Ava struggles to understand why Taco Cat can’t seem to warm up to her. But in a like manner, she feels awkward and annoyed around her own new environment — the new girl, Zara. It seems like a nice paradox.
I’m glad that Ava’s world seems to make more sense by the end of this six-week journal. In addition to her discoveries about friendship and her time becoming “friends” with Taco Cat, Ava also continued writing about her love of words and writing, and she wrote a short story, just as she had in the first book. What a likable girl she is!
I listened to the audio of Ava and Taco Cat along with my 10-year-old daughter as we drove to and from swim meets. She also enjoyed it. I’ll admit, I did worry that she would once again begin her own begging for a cat, but apparently, she already knows I won’t budge on that, because when I mentioned that begging for a cat wouldn’t work, she said, “I know! You are no fun.” Well, at least she knows me!
https://reviews.rebeccareid.com/ava-a...
Ava and Taco Cat by Carol Weston (Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, 2015 ) is written in journal form and picks up right when the previous diary end. Ava turns eleven right at the beginning of the book, and she begs for a cat as a birthday present. Ava and Taco Cat focuses on Ava’s experiences with her new cat, but even more, it is a story about Ava coming to terms with what friendship really means to her.
It is so hard being eleven years old. I remember being confused with friends who wanted to come over but didn’t want to talk to me in school. It was so confusing! Ava also feels confused when her long-time best friend begins spending time with another friend.
Even the Taco Cat theme echoes these thoughts. Ava is so excited to be there for her rescued cat, but his shyness and inability to warm up to Ava’s family become Ava’s biggest concern. Why won’t he like her? Especially when she’s being so nice and loving! Ava struggles to understand why Taco Cat can’t seem to warm up to her. But in a like manner, she feels awkward and annoyed around her own new environment — the new girl, Zara. It seems like a nice paradox.
I’m glad that Ava’s world seems to make more sense by the end of this six-week journal. In addition to her discoveries about friendship and her time becoming “friends” with Taco Cat, Ava also continued writing about her love of words and writing, and she wrote a short story, just as she had in the first book. What a likable girl she is!
I listened to the audio of Ava and Taco Cat along with my 10-year-old daughter as we drove to and from swim meets. She also enjoyed it. I’ll admit, I did worry that she would once again begin her own begging for a cat, but apparently, she already knows I won’t budge on that, because when I mentioned that begging for a cat wouldn’t work, she said, “I know! You are no fun.” Well, at least she knows me!
https://reviews.rebeccareid.com/ava-a...
February 21, 2023
Ava wants a pet for her birthday, but her mom works at a vet clinic and doesn't want to deal with more animals at home. When Ava hears about a stray cat that her mom's clinic helped, she is determined to adopt the cat. With the help of her sister, Pip, they convince their parents of a trial run. So, Tacocat becomes part of their family. It's not as wonderful as Ava thought it would be. Tacocat hides under the couch, doesn't purr or snuggle, and runs away from her. Ava needs to be patient, while brushing Tacocat he finally starts to purr.
My son and I enjoyed the palindromes and word play throughout the book. My son loves anything related to cats. Some parts of the book were beyond his age, teenage drama. But, it was a fun read...I teared up.
My son and I enjoyed the palindromes and word play throughout the book. My son loves anything related to cats. Some parts of the book were beyond his age, teenage drama. But, it was a fun read...I teared up.
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