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Wednesday, February 21, 2024

George & Tao, written and illustrated by Claude K. Dubois. Translated by Daniel Hahn. Gecko Press, Firefly Books. 2023. $23.99 ages 2 and up

 


"George wonders where Tao has gone. 

He's not in his basket ... 

or playing with his ball.

George climbs the stairs."

This tiny book about two best friends, who happen to be a dog and a kitten, will find its way into the hearts of our littlest readers. When the kitten arrives, George is apprehensive but willing to offer a welcome. What a welcome it is! George is full of energy and joy as is the young kitten. Tao races to the top of living room curtains ... and falls! 

Quickly scooped by their owner and removed from the scene, George is left to wonder where Tao might have gone. His search begins. After looking in the kitten's basket and with its ball, George moves further afield. Not in the bathroom or the toilet. Not in a shoe or on the bed. Where might Tao be? Returning downstairs, George sets himself to waiting. Throughout the day and the evening, George waits. His concern is rewarded when Tao returns from a visit to the vet, tired and healthy.  

The small size of the book (6" by 6") does nothing to lessen the impact of this lovely story. In fact, it is a real advantage to the feelings aroused while sharing it. The watercolor and pencil illustrations are done in soft colors to enhance the soft spot created for true friendship. Perfect fare for little hands and big hearts.

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