May 28 ~~ I recently read a book about the life of Captain Kangaroo, an old friend of mine from early childhood. I learned that the Captain, whose real name was Bob Keeshan, had written some children's books so of course I hurried off to my favorite online used bookseller to order some. I have finally found a chance to read them tonight, as a pleasant way to finish off what was a very relaxing day.
Before I go any further, I have to say that my Mom read all these books before I got my turn at them. She thought they were wonderful stories with beautiful illustrations, and since she was speaking from the point of view of a former second-grade teacher, I think that is a pretty good endorsement of my old friend's books!
I have just finished this first one, Itty Bitty Kitty. I agree with Mother. The story is exciting and clever, the illustrations are bright and cheerful, and the book itself is big and easy to handle. It was published in 1997, long after my childhood years but I would have loved it if I had read it as a youngster.
Itty Bitty Kitty is one of those adventurous, exploring kittens who just has to know what is on the other side of the fence in her garden. What will she find in the forest, and where will she go when the rain starts to fall? Her refuge provides another great adventure for this adorable beastie.
There are two more Itty Bitty Kitty books, and since each one is only 32 pages long, I shall return shortly with thoughts on the second one, Itty Bitty Kitty Makes a Big Splash.