Only the Cat Saw

Sure to be applauded, as were A Year of Birds and The Bells of London, Wolff's third book features full-color paintings that extend the narrative by showing details not mentioned in the writing. This is an aspect that allows young readers to make exciting discoveries about Amy's family. The text tells us that Amy is helping her father at suppertime; mother is busy with Sam. The illustrations reveal that Sam is an infant, what Dad and Amy prepare and how they enjoy setting the table. With the family busy, only the cat sees things going on outside: peaceful cows in the meadow, the blazing sunset. Throughout the night, the alert cat keeps his eyes on other wide-awakes like himself while the parents and children sleep. In the morning, though, while the cat snoozes, early-to-rise Amy alone sees the lovely butterfly resting on the window as the sun is rising. (37)