Reviews for The Owl and the Pussy-cat
School Library Journal
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PreS-Gr 2-This classic poem has proved to be irresistible to generations of illustrators. In this appealing version done in lush blues and greens, Voake creates a lovely homage not just to the familiar words but to Lear's own paintings as well. The artist found multiple opportunities to expand on the whimsical text in her pen-and-ink and watercolor images-showing the lovers procuring the boat, taking part on a lengthy journey, and buying the wedding ring. The soothing colors of the sea and skies and the islands of the tropics are romanticized and dreamlike. There are also a few puzzling choices, such as pea-green accents that extend to people's skin color, and "the land where the Bong-tree grows" consists of a vignette with colonial overtones showing dark-skinned people carrying parasols. Overall, the art is more sophisticated than that of many of the picture book versions for kids, and perhaps it won't be everyone's cup of tea, but it is nonetheless expertly rendered and every bit as rich as earlier interpretations. VERDICT A fanciful addition. A fun exercise would be to compare three or four different adaptations of the classic with kids and get their own take on what all this nonsense is about.-Luann Toth, School Library Journal © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Kirkus
Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Edward Lear's famous lovers sail away for a year and a day in this lushly illustrated picture-book edition. Voake's signature pen-and-watercolor style works perfectly with Lear's prose, enabling her to pay homage to the original tale while also constructing a whimsical world all of her own making. Deft use of double-page spreads allows for illustration of small moments not explicitly stated in the poem, such as the purchase of the pea-green boat that takes the Owl and the Pussy-cat away to their new life and the search for the Piggy-wig from whom they purchase the wedding ring. The soft color palette, with soothing shades of green and blue in the sea and delicate pinks evoking the late-afternoon sky, creates a dreamlike quality that makes this version ideal for bedtime. Voake's light, capable pen strokes conjure the bustling activity of the seaport from which the lovers embark and the gorgeous tropical island populated with all races of people where they finally marry. Most affecting, however, are the spreads on the sea, when the Owl and the Pussy-cat are alone beneath a blanket of stars. While children may overlook the loving glances exchanged between the animals, adults reading along are sure to notice them and smile with remembrance. An endearing version that appeals to children and adults alike. (Picture book. 2-6) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
