Thursday, February 14, 2013

Wonderful Alexander and the Catwings

He seems to be more of a dog person


Le Guin, Ursula K. Wonderful Alexander and the Catwings. New York : Orchard Books, 1994.

Plot: When Alexander, a lively, bossy kitten, decides to explore, he quickly finds himself in trouble. After managing to dodge a large truck, two hunting dogs, and a frightening owl, he becomes caught in a tree. Lost and bewildered, he can hardly believe his eyes when another cat appears...with a set of wings. She does not speak, but shows Alexander the way down the tree and to her home. At her farm, he meets the Catwings, four kittens with the ability to fly. Eventually, the wingless kitten becomes adopted by the farmers, but his desire for accomplishment remains unsatisfied. He needs to repay the wonderful Catwings to meet his true potential.

Genre: Animals, Friendship, Fantasy

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Jane on Her Own, The Marvelous Misadventures of Sebastian

Personal Thoughts: Like Catwings, the title enjoys an intriguing story with elaborate illustrations. The pictures complement the text well, since they combine detail with expressiveness. Also like its predecessor, the story does not gloss over the hardships adventurers encounter. The characters, while fantasy-based, still face reality. Hunger, trauma, fear, limitations, and discomfort find mention. However, so do the methods for overcoming such obstacles. The title offers a mythical story with realistic results, creating a fun tale.

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