Stretchy and Beanie
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2021
978-0593111611 , hardcover
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What’s an independent cat to do when his friend decides she’s the leader of their pack? This story of friendship and power dynamics is a read-aloud joy.
Beanie, a ginger-haired girl with a fierce heart, is the perfect pal for her newfound companion, Stretchy McHandsome the cat. That is, until Beanie gets it into her head that she should teach Stretchy how to be a perfect pet. Her lessons really curl his whiskers, and when hiding from Beanie isn’t enough, he has to take an even bigger leap. Then it’s Beanie who needs a lesson of her own: how to be an accepting friend rather than a bossy-boots.
Reviews
"The lightheartedness of the art, full of clever details for astute readers to discover, puts a comforting spin on a more serious tale . . . Art and verse alternate between playful silliness and showing the sincere worry of a little girl learning to be gentle with her pet . . . Delightful reminder that having a pet differs from parenting ‘a troop of teddy bears."—Kirkus
"Schachner, of Skippyjon Jones fame, matches her rhyming stanzas with energetic illustrations filled with activity, bendy felines, and Beanie’s unconventional flair."—Booklist
"Comical panels and lots of action keep the pet care lessons fun and kid-appropriate; seasoned feline caretakers will especially enjoy a spread where a leash-clad Stretchy teeters between stubbornly put-out and potentially homicidal . . . an enjoyable and educational romp with our favorite butterscotch boy."—BCCB
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