Robert Heidbreder

Young readers will try to teach their own pets graceful ballet steps after diving into this book.

At school, the kids constantly talk about their cats and all the things they do. A boy, of course, can't stay out of the mix, especially when his cat can perform grand jetes and more. It's hard to be sure if anyone believes everything he says, though. So he decides to invite everyone with their cats to visit him at home and see if they can be taught ballet as well.

This is such a light-hearted, fun read. Pet owners will have no problem understanding all the antics cats (and a dog) can come up with. As each kid tells the latest actions of their favorite feline, the illustrations let the moment come to life...and that will put a smile on younger listeners' faces. The boy just pops in sporadically with the sophisticated dance moves his cat performs. This will come across a bit as braggy and almost seem as if the boy says it just to join in on the conversation and catch attention. But this book has even more in store.

It's a little silly and humorous, but there are gentle messages and facts at play. At the end of the book, the reader will discover that each kid's name is derived from a famous ballet dancer. There's a short summary of the accomplishments of each one. Then, the various steps and moves mentioned in the book are quickly described, so young listeners can try to do these moves themselves. More or less. It's definitely a nice way to slide in a little information without hinting at anything during the story itself.

These are all cats to adore, and many readers will wish they could have such a talented friend themselves.
I received a DRC and enjoyed the humor and more in this one quite a bit.… (mehr)

ROAR-chestra! is a marvellous book that contains a lot of musical terms.

If you want to teach young kids all about the world of music, this is a great book to start! I always found musical theory boring when I was a kid, so a book like this would have been the perfect addition to our music classes and band practices. Allergro, staccato! So many ways to show musical terminology is an engaging way. Add in animals for even more fun, and you've got one winning book!

I enjoy the illustrations on top of the story. They are colourful and goofy, which is just how I'd like a book like this! Plus, there's also some descriptions on how to pronounce these words at the back too!

Four out of five stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kids Can Press for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.… (mehr)