Thursday, February 28, 2008

Mr Pusskins by Sam Lloyd

In many ways, this is a classic morality tale that reminds the reader to 'count your blessings' and 'the grass isn't always greener...'. But it is also a witty and compelling story about a cantankerous, ungrateful cat, Mr Pusskins, who, bored of his owner's stories and constant fussing, decides to leave home in search of adventure.

As the honoured guardian of my very own contrary fluffy ginger cat, I was both highly amused and duly impressed at the author's convincing portrayal of feline characteristics. Lloyd succeeds in capturing the fickle, indifferent attitude that most cat-people will instantly recognise.

The illustrations have a slightly manic, almost child-like quality to them, and yet at the same time capture a range of expressions and emotions beautifully. From indifference at Emily's attentions, to glee at his escape and subsequent rebellious antics, to tragic self-pity when he realises that street life is not all it's cracked up to be, to his eventual remorse and contrition, Mr Pusskins' changing demeanour is perfectly delivered.

A happy ending, when Mr Pusskins is reunited with an ecstatic Emily, gives the tale a welcome feel-good factor which reassures the reader that it's never too late to say sorry.

1 comment:

The BEDBUG Blog said...

This story looks so engaging. One can't help but want to read about Mr. Pusskins--love the name!

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