Ketzel the Cat Who Composed by Leslea Newman - ADVISABLE

Newman, Leslea, Ketzel the Cat Who Composed. PICTURE BOOK.  Candlewick Press, 2015. Language: G (no swears, no “F’s”); Mature content: G; Violence: G.

This may be the most adorable story I have ever had the pleasure of holding in my hands. Ketzel the Cat Who Composed is the true story about how composer Moshe Cotel submitted a piano composition to a Paris New Music Review contest. What made his submission unique? It was composed by Ketzel, his cat! Although it did not win the contest, the submission, entitled “Piece for Piano: Four Paws” received a certificate of special mention for its creativity and imaginative nature. It was performed at a prestigious concert hall a few weeks later. Cotel snuck Ketzel into the event. When it came time for Ketzel’s song to be played, Ketzel let out a “Meow!” which both startled and delighted the audience. 

This is a great story from start to finish. The wonderful illustrations add to its appeal, and to make it even better, it actually happened. Bravo!

EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE.  Reviewer: JL