"In Marie Elaine's house they had a car whose name was Malcolm. Every night Malcolm went out, and every morning he came back in. During the day Malcolm slept a lot of the time."
That fact got Marie Elaine to wondering what Malcolm did at night. Her mother was vague; she didn't seem to know what he did. As luck would have it, one night Marie Elaine was in the kitchen getting milk from the fridge when she noticed Malcolm by the cat door. Interestingly enough, he was dressed up! She asked why and was told that Malcolm was going to a party. He couldn't reveal his destination as it was a secret.
Marie Elaine begs to be allowed to attend the party. She promises she will keep the secret. It requires a change of clothes...and size. She is then able to go through the cat door with her escort. They are not the only two awake this late at night. Norman wants to join them. Malcolm agrees so Norman won't tell. Off they hurry, in hopes they won't be chased by the dogs. No such luck...but, Malcolm is wily and soon they are out of harm's way. The party is on. It isn't long until a special guest arrives...the Queen of the Cats. A feast is consumed, gifts are given and the party ends just as the sun peeks over the horizon. Home they quickly go!
The next thing Marie Elaine knows she is asleep on the sofa, and her mother is talking to her...saying she looks like she has been out all night with the cat. Quelle surprise!
John Burningham is another of my favorites...his stories are always welcome and original. This is no exception...the artwork is done in mixed media with attention to detail and some wonderful double page spreads. Read the book, but keep the secret!
No comments:
Post a Comment