Humor, the value of friendship, and Mexican culture was all brought to life in this story with superior and vibrant illustrations. I would say the paintings or illustrations in this story was something that really set this book apart and held readers' attention throughout. The main character, Chato, exhibited true qualities of friendship, by learning that his friend, Novio Boy, strongly disliked attending birthday parties because it reminded him that he didn't know his own, nor had he ever had his own birthday party before. In attempt to uplift his friend, Chato decided to host a birthday party for Novio Boy, the very next day. Chato planned all the details that were typical in their birthday parties, including: ordering his favorite mouse cake, inviting all their friends, making traditional Mexican food, putting up a pinata, and setting up birthday games-not to mention that everyone had brought gifts! The only problem was, Novio boy was nowhere to be found on the day of his party and Chato forgot the most important part-to invite Novio Boy! At last, Novio Boy made his appearance after much searching and friends making statements about how much they missed him. Novio boy could not have been more excited or surprised! Novio boy told his scraggly cat friends that he brought with, "These guys are my familia (family)." The resolution to this story is what makes this relatable to children, as it gives hope that even though your family life or past experiences may not be pleasant, there can always be family found in friendship. ( )

Chato throws his friend, Novio Boy, a surprise party on his birthday because he has never had one. Novio Boy wanders around alone and feeling sorry for himself while his friends are preparing the party.
Themes - birthdays, Hispanic culture
I didn't really like this book. It was a familiar story with tereotypical characters. You could use this book with students by having them compare this version of the story with others. ( )

They say to "never judge a book by its cover," but this cover sold me. The cats look cool and suave, like they know how to have a good time. That's exactly what this book was- a good time. The illustrations perfectly matched the personalities of Chato and Novio boy. Chato likes to party, and when Novio tells him he's never had a birthday party before because he didn't know his birth date, Chato takes this is the perfect chance for him to through a grand, surprise party. I like the addition of Spanish words throughout the story as it made the story feel authentic, and the glossary of Spanish words in the front help to understand the context of the story. ( )

I like this book because I think it shows the meaning of a true friendship among two cats but it isn't a book that really teaches kids anything. I think children's books should have some type of learning experience from it and this one doesn't really have that. On thing I did find very interesting is the angel on every page. I am still very curious as to why it is there but I think it may be like a guardian angel. I really like that Susan Guevara added the angel in her imagery. ( )

Illustrations are paintings with lots of color and so much detail it is easy to miss something unless you spend a lot of time with each page. with This book contains a glossary of Spanish to English words that appear in the book. This book is about a cat who is sad because he doesn't know his family or his birthday, so his friend decides to throw him a birthday party, but forgets to invite the birthday boy!
This is a great book for showing a little bit of hispanic culture. Can be used with a lesson on the beginning of summer (end of school), or showing the importance of friedships and how community and frieds can be as good as family. ( )