CHICKEN AND CAT CLEAN UP

Gone are the misgivings of city life found in Chicken and Cat (2006). Cat is now fully adjusted and ready to make a living. Or at least, enough money to buy a new pet. In Varon’s latest wordless narrative, Chicken starts his own housekeeping business and who better to help him than his good pal, Cat? Except...one broken dish, an overflowing washing machine and a tiny munch on a treasured houseplant later—Cat finds himself banished to the outside stoop with downcast eyes and a gloomy slump. But suddenly a robbery happens right in front of him! A mouse has mugged Ladybug. Cat’s feline instincts kick in and he gives the mouse a chase. With brilliant, victorious nonchalance, Cat tucks the fuming mouse under his arm and plunks him on the desk at the police station (where his ample reward awaits). Double-page spreads alternate with paneled pages to let the tale unfold with precise, laugh-out-loud pacing. This hip, spaghetti-limbed duo once again displays a sweet friendship and celebrates the power of individual talents. A welcome second adventure. (Picture book. 4-8)