Houndsley and Catina

"This charming trio of chapters implicitly testifies to the adage that opposites attract." — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

Catina wants to be a famous writer. Houndsley is an excellent cook. Catina thinks Houndsley is a wonder. Houndsley thinks Catina is a very good friend. So what should Houndsley say about Catina’s seventy-four-chapter memoir? And can Catina find the right words of comfort for Houndsley after the big cooking contest fiasco? The subtle dance of friendship — from holding your tongue to knowing what to say — is played out in three sweetly humorous tales about an unlikely, likable pair.

Child Magazine

Catina longs to be a famous writer but doesn't really like writing. Houndsley is a marvelous cook but cracks under the pressure of a cooking contest. Such are the trials of this lovable cat-dog duo, who cheer each other on in the discovery of their unique talents. Divided into three short, easy-to-read chapters, the story is a terrific introduction to chapter books. Sweet watercolor, pencil, and collage illustrations create a gentle world where best friends enjoy a summer night sitting in comfortable silence: "Everyone has talents. Watching fireflies was one of theirs." (Ages 6 to 8)
Child magazine's Best Children's Book Awards 2006

JAMES HOWE is the acclaimed author of more than seventy books for young readers, including the much-lauded BUNNICULA and its sequels. Of HOUNDSLEY AND CATINA, he says, "When my daughter was little, my favorite books to read to her were about best friends like Frog and Toad, George and Martha, and Winnie-the-Pooh and the other inhabitants of the Hundred Acre Wood. HOUNDSLEY AND CATINA grew out of my love for books like these and my belief that friendship is worth far more than prizes or fame."

MARIE-LOUISE GAY is the author and illustrator of many award-winning books, including the Stella and Sam series. She says of this book, "When I first read HOUNDSLEY AND CATINA, I was captivated by the evocative and emotional quality of their friendship. It was a joy to create these two wonderful characters and the world they live in."