Panda Pat and the Rat Called Cat
by Neil Ballard, Steven Nosov (Illustrator)
DETAILS:
Publisher: Bookbaby
Publication Date: December 23, 2020
Format: Hardcover
Length: 36 pgs.
Read Date: April 19, 2024
What’s Panda Pat and the Rat Called Cat About?
This is the story about, well—it’s there in the title. Mostly, it’s about Cat, with his pal, Pat, playing a good supporing role (with Pat getting the lead-off position in the title, I assumed he’d be the focus, but he isn’t—and that might just be me).
Cat got his moniker as an insult, really—no rat gets nicknamed that as a sign of respect or friendship. So he wants to avoid those people who gave him that name. But he eventually has to go to the city for supplies, but his buddy, Pat, tags along for moral support.
While there, Cat enters a race, enticed by the prospect of winning a cheese trophy (and really, who wouldn’t want a cheese trophy no matter their species?). A little comedy, a little humility, and some chaos ensue.
Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute
This is the first time that Nosov has illustrated a children’s book—and it better not be his last. Even before I talked to Ballard about the book at a Book Fair, I knew I was going to buy it based on the cover. The rat called Cat looks like a character from a video game I played forever ago—he’s not, but it felt like that when I saw him. Just an instant click. And Pat is almost as good.
The art is the clear star of this book—with all due respect to Ballard—it’s engaging, it’s energetic, it’s cute, it’s striking. In case I’m not being clear—I’m a fan.
There are some samples of this book on his website, but not all the images there are really kids-book-appropriate (there’s nothing scandalous or anything, just figured I should make the disclaimer). You can also see them on this tweet.
How is it to Read Aloud?
It’s fine. Some of the sentences are a little cumbersome to read aloud—nothing major, but there’s no real rhythm or zip to the writing. The text is just to convey the narrative, not to steal the limelight or tickle the listener. The story and the art are the stars of this book—which is fine, I should stress.
So, what did I think about Panda Pat and the Rat Called Cat?
It’s a fun story elevated by the eye-catching illustrations. There’s a little bit of a lesson—maybe even two—but nothing that will hit you over the head with the moral if you’re not in the mood to focus on it with your listener.
Also, whoever did the typesetting/interior design should get some kudos—it pops off the page in just the right way.
Ballard indicated that a sequel is in progress—I’ll gladly grab it when I see it.
Good characters, a nice story, and there’s no way the little reader in your life doesn’t like the art—this is one to add to your shelves, for sure.
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