Scat, Cats!

August 1, 2001
K-Gr 2-In simple and predictable verse, Holub describes what happens when a household is overrun by invading felines. They run through the house wreaking pure havoc on couches, flowers, lamps, and anything else they can get their paws on. Soon, however, all of the cats are shooed out, but the two children begin to miss them and set out on a search. Once the creatures are found, the siblings realize the virtues of having them in the house. So, too, do the cats begin to appreciate the joys of human companionship. While the text seems to project the benign mischief, the illustrations draw a less clear portrayal. According to Davis's watercolors, the cats are attempting to trip a child, spill food, and damage furniture-not the sort of behavior that warrants an invite back into a house. The pictures themselves are nicely detailed. However, the pale yellow, teal, and brick orange used appear washed out and don't suit the frenetic commotion taking place. With its easy vocabulary and rhyming verse, Scat, Cats! is well suited for beginning readers. Nevertheless, with few surprises and a general lack of characterization, it falls short on creativity. Readers will find little enjoyment in the destructive actions of these cats and find a bit unbelievable the children's change of heart.-Louie Lahana, New York City Public Schools

Copyright 2001 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2001
Gr. K-1. There are cats, cats everywhere, lounging on the chairs, running down the hall, creating havoc in their wake. The little girl and boy in this story have had enough: "Scat!" But no sooner are the cats finally gone than the children want them home. Of course, the cats are happy to oblige. The manic, loosely sketched, double-spread cartoon illustrations, filled in with bright watercolors, are loaded with entertaining kitty antics that will make the story quite clear--even for children who haven't yet begun to read. For new readers or those who are ready to try reading, the four- or five-word sentences of basic vocabulary are a perfect start.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2001, American Library Association.)