Cat Secrets

A yellow, tiger-striped cat accosts readers at the start of this comical picture book. "Stop! Stop reading right now! This book is for CATS only!" it shouts, pointing to a red diary-style book titled "Cat Secrets." Before giving up said secrets, the cat and two compatriots examine readers' feline credentials. "Okay, if you're really a cat, let's hear you meow," says the cat. On the next spread, the three cats' huge eyes face readers, giving them time to chime in; sufficiently impressed with the meowing, the cats move on to other tests. If somewhat generic, Czekaj's expressive, high-contrast, high-energy cartoons put the cats front and center, emphasizing their direct addresses to readers; a mouse, who repeatedly tries to steal the book, provides additional comedy. The cats' actions are represented both visually as well as with words (as they "leap," "whisper," and "yawn"). Although the appeals for reader interaction may make for a rowdy read-aloud, Czekaj cleverly slows the book's pace at the end by demanding that readers take a catnap. It's easy to see this one being read just before preschool naptime. Ages 3–6. (Jan.)