Kat Writes a Song

This gentle tale revealing the soothing power of music, optimism, and friendship stars a lonely gray kitten, who writes a song to counter the rainy-day blues. After she finishes “Amazing Song to Make Things Better,” Kat sings it (wryly, the lyrics are comprised of a single word: meow) and instantly feels better—evidenced by the appearance of the sun and her brightening facial expression in a portrait hanging on the wall. Strolling outdoors with her guitar, Kat cheers cranky Dog and scatterbrained Turtle with her song, but her hopes that it is magical are dashed when the tune fails to fix a broken wheel on Bunny’s skateboard. With simple lines, chunky images, and a soft pastel palette, Foley (Thank You Bear) showcases Kat’s seesawing emotions, which, thanks to her intuitive friend Bird, cap off on a high note. This ingenuous heroine (who, like her pals, has a vintage plush look) will win readers over with her goodwill and humorously streamlined song. Musical notes and lyrics set to Kat’s song appear on the endpapers—a bonus for young singers. Ages 3–7. Agent: Caryn Wiseman, Andrea Brown Literary Agency. [em](May) [/em]