Children's Picture Books

Marley and the Kittens

By: John Grogan
Illustrated by: Richard Cowdrey
Publisher: Harper Collins
Publication Date: April 2010
ISBN: 978-0061714863
Reviewed by: Ellen Feld
Review Date: July 3, 2010

Marley and his family went out into the country for a picnic. On their way home, Marley was enjoying all the smells of the country by sticking his nose out the window. But then, “Aroof! Woof! Woof!” Marley found something and Daddy stopped the car. What did Marley find?

Mommy, Daddy, Cassie and Baby Louie followed Marley into the grass where they found…two adorable kittens! They can’t leave the babies alone so the kitties are brought home with the family. Good Marley!

Once home, the kittens work their magic and the family quickly falls in love. They run, and play, and pounce. But when Marley tries to do the same thing, watch out! Disaster follows. And when the kittens discover their litter box, well, let’s just say that Marley’s attempts at using the litter box result in hilarity.

Marley and the Kittens is an absolutely adorable book that easily outlines the differences between kittens and puppies. Poor Marley just can’t seem to do anything right. But it’s not because he’s bad, he’s a dog and not nearly as agile and graceful as his two new friends. The story is funny, and sweet, and should elicit many giggles from young readers.

Illustrated by Richard Cowdrey, who has illustrated several of the other Marley children’s books, the pictures are absolutely wonderful. Full of charm and character, they will draw children into the story and have them wishing Marley could come live with them. In short, it looks like Grogan and Cowdrey have another winner on their hands.

Quill says: Fluffy kittens, a silly dog and a big mess make Marley and the Kittens a winner!