Blue Ethel by Jennifer Black Reinhardt

Abstract

Reviewed by: Blue Ethel by Jennifer Black Reinhardt Kate Quealy-Gainer, Assistant Editor Reinhardt, Jennifer Black Blue Ethel; written and illus. by Jennifer Black Reinhardt. Ferguson/Farrar, 2017 [34p] ISBN 978-0-374-30382-2 $17.99 Reviewed from galleys R 3-6 yrs Ethel the cat is an fat, old black and white cat who’s the surveyor of her kingdom (the backyard), monitor of weather, and chaser of villains (mostly bugs). One day, however, her special sleepytime spot on the sidewalk has been chalked blue, and after a good stretch and roll, Ethel’s a cerulean shade as well. An unhappy Ethel hides inside until she notices Fluffy, “a young, and slim, and usually white” kitty who has turned himself pink in solidarity with Ethel’s new look and who invites Ethel outside for her daily routine. There is a gentle humor to Ethel’s story, with a cozy, rhythmic text that moves the readers along in a steady but soft pace. Ethel, with her rotund, scratchily lined figure, lumbers through delicately dappled line and watercolor scenes; full-bleed spreads show the comfy clutter of a well-used backyard, and a gray background and mess of blue lines underscore Ethel’s blue feelings. Viewers who spot Fluffy early will happily join the young cat as he follows Ethel through the book, especially as the two cats roll in rainbow-colored chalk that presages the closing spread’s vibrant sunset. This is an easy addition to a cat-themed storytime, but be ready to break out the chalk and head outside afterward. Copyright © 2017 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois