cover image Baker and Taylor and the Mystery of the Library Cats (Baker and Taylor)

Baker and Taylor and the Mystery of the Library Cats (Baker and Taylor)

Candy Rodó, illus. by Weaverbird Interactive. Paw Prints, $19.99 (32p) ISBN 978-1-223-18377-0

Rodó pays tribute to the New York Public Library with this account of two book-loving cats’ visit to the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Workmanlike storytelling introduces the felines: “Baker is serious and quiet. He reads to learn. Taylor is silly and outgoing. He reads for fun.” When a friend suggests the pair meet the “cat buddies” residing at the NYPL’s main branch, Baker and Taylor head that way, enjoying classic N.Y.C. experiences such as taking the subway, visiting a bodega, and grabbing a slice. Upon their arrival, the duo unsuccessfully look for their fellow kitties in Bryant Park and inside the library, until finally spotting lion statues Patience and Fortitude right out front. Though sparsely populated digital illustrations don’t capture N.Y.C.’s energy, and the 1 line is depicted in blue rather than red, Baker and Taylor bring a tourist’s-eye view to this earnest homage to the famous library. Concluding notes and boxes throughout offer engaging facts and figures about New York City. Ages 5–8. (Oct.)