The Cats of Tiffany Street

Cats , the musical, has nothing on Hayes's ( The Grumpalump ) motley feline cast, which will warm the cockles of the hardest heart. Her endearing tale is imbued with a lilting, melodious language that is both singular and comfortable. Gentle rhythms, occasional repetitions and easy alliterations propel the story to its happy conclusion. Marmalade Ned, Delicate Fan, Pitter and Pat and a stray named Shadow are kidnapped from their alley by a man in a van , who locks them up in a remote shed. Shadow, however, escapes his clutches and yowls disconsolately until the harried catnapper frees his friends. Shadow recognizes another stray when he sees one and happily stays on with the man with the van. These bully cats bristle with character and distinction in a league with Kliban's creations. Luminous watercolors enhanced with pencil (and loaded with charm) will make Tiffany Street a location of choice. Ages 4-up. (Oct.)