Atticus Caticus

What a splendid cat(icus) is Atticus. . . Kramer’s energetic illustrations have the look of scribbly colored pencil over block-printed background patterns. Their bright and silly expressiveness is an excellent match for Maizes’ rollicking text, which should make for many enjoyable read-alouds. Tongue-twister–y fun celebrating the joys of being owned by a cat.

Like all feline fans, a young cat owner can’t get enough of a self-possessed pet’s quirky ways in this book. . . In phrases rendered for maximum expressiveness in a mix of typography and handwriting, the kid begins with “Atticus. Cat-icus. Rat-a-tat-tat-ticus,” first beating time on a box drum, then marveling at how the cat “yawns with his whole head.”. . . And Atticus proves himself a worthy object of adoration; in fact, he’s a performative puss nonpareil, zooming through the house, pouncing on a toy, and chittering to a bright red bird on the window’s other side.

Jaunty verse and rhythmic interludes guide the listener through a day in the life of cat Atticus and his child companion. . . . Jewel-toned digital art blends smooth backgrounds, soft textures, and scribbly details, suggesting that our kid narrator may have illustrated the piece themself, adding appeal and relatability for their intended listeners. Perfect for library storytimes, bedtime reading, and feline friends, this is sure to be a crowd pleaser for audiences young and old.