Lois Simmie

In principle I like a cat in a bookstore or hotel... but unfortunately I'm allergic, and am thus turned off by books like this. ?áThe cat was allowed to ride on the clean linen in the housekeeping cart, ferpeetsake... and no, I can't just choose not to stay at a place that has a cat, because they never think to warn you when you're planning your visit.

Other than that, it was a cute enough story. ?áI myself thought the pix a little odd, and the text is too long for toddlers, but it's recommendable I suppose.… (meer)

Originally published in Canada as Mister Got to Go: The Cat That Wouldn't Leave, this adorable picture-book features one of the most winsome feline heroes it has been my pleasure to meet in some time! When Mr. Foster, the somewhat gruff manager of the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver, discovers a wet cat on his windowsill, he lets the poor creature in, but insists that, when the weather clears up, he's got to go. Mister Got to Go knows better of course - he's decided he's had enough of being a stray - and so do the staff. It just takes Mr. Foster a while to discover that this new resident is here to stay...

Apparently based upon a true story - the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver does indeed have a resident cat! - No Cats Allowed reminded me of other tales of hotel animals, from Catie Copley to John Philip Duck. As a confirmed cat-lover, I knew which way the wind was blowing, and was just waiting to see how our feline hero managed to get his way. The delightful story is accompanied by appealing watercolor artwork that accentuates the fun and humor of various scenes - the battle between Mr. Got to Go and the racoon! Haha! - making this an all around winner!… (meer)