Houndsley and Catina Candlewick Sparks [Paperback]

This charming trio of chapters implicitly testifies to the adage that opposites attract. — Publishers Weekly

Catina wants to be a famous writer. Houndsley is an excellent cook. Catina thinks Houndsley is a wonder. Houndsley thinks Catina is a very good friend. So what should Houndsley say about Catina’s seventy-four-chapter memoir? And can Catina find the right words of comfort for Houndsley after the big cooking contest fiasco? The subtle dance of friendship — from holding your tongue to knowing what to say — is played out in three sweetly humorous tales about an unlikely, likable pair.Delicate watercolors capture the delight of a wintry day, and Howe's on-target portrayal of friends who get along despite bumps along the way make this special.
—Booklist

These endearing characters shine in this gentle and reflective read.
—Kirkus Reviews

Gentle, whimsical humor.
—School Library Journal, starred review

Illustrations glow with warmth and good spirits…an encouraging book on overcoming fears.
—Booklist

The lively, brisk writing is wonderfully extended in Gay’s airy watercolor-and-pencil illustrations, which keep the focus on the caring friends.
—Booklist

Published in beginning-reader format, this gentle story will appeal to children’s compassion as well as their sense of humor. Though the setting is a cold, sometimes-bleak autumn, Gay’s pencil, watercolor, and collage artwork glows with warmth, style, and quiet pizzazz. An appealing book for independent readers in the early grades, the story will also make a good fall read-aloud for preschool classes.
—Booklist

A warm, gently humorous, makes-you-smile-all-over depiction of best friendship…here’s hoping there are more adventures ahead for this cat and dog duo.
—Bulletin of the Center for ChildrenRl’