Just stunning. I bought this long before Patrick was a twinkle in anyone's eye because the paintings were so, so lovely. Ruth Sanderson's cats are as gorgeous as Lesley Ann (sp?) Ivory's, and from me, that's saying something. ( )

*Gorgeous* illustrations; story traditional but only slightly interesting to me. ( )

This is an exquisite book, and a very nice little fairy tale about the difference between inner beauty and the other kind. The illustrations are detailed and sumptuous. Papa Gatto needs someone to help him care for his kittens while he is away serving the Prince. He is persuaded to hire a beautiful young woman who turns out to be totally uninterested in his babies and quite lazy. Her plainer step-sister, on the other hand...well, you can probably figure out how this goes. Delightful. ( )

A beautiful tale with enough complexity for older children and honest themes. Graceful language. The paintings are luscious - the kittens' fur, the rich fabrics, the girls' hair - more tactile and real than photos.

I waited a long time for this to come in from ILL - it was worth the wait. I almost want to buy it. Def. will look for more writing and art from Sanderson. ( )

Media: Oils