Is That a Cat?

Hamilton (But!) takes readers on a wild goose chase through a typical suburban neighborhood—all that’s missing is a wild goose. “I wish I had another cat to hang out with,” says a glum house cat as the book opens. “Hey, is that a cat?” he wonders, spotting what looks to be a curved orange tail—just like his—outside. No dice: the “tail” is actually an umbrella handle. “I’m an elf who wants some rain so I can test my umbrella!” explains the umbrella’s holder, who is being showered with blue droplets. “Is this rain?” Nope. The “rain” is the tears of a bear, sitting on the roof and mourning his lost boot. As a warbler-seeking birder, a tree doctor, and others join the growing crew, the sheer unpredictably of who will show up next becomes a significant part of the book’s fun. Hamilton’s jittery drawings are right in step with the book’s oddball atmosphere, and by the time readers get to the pool party at the end, they may have forgotten how it all got started in the first place. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)