Lulu and the Cat in the Bag by Hilary McKay and illustrated by Priscilla Lamont

Lulu and the Cat in the Bag by Hilary McKay and illustrated by Priscilla Lamont. Albert Whitman and Company, 2013. 112 pages.

Reading Level: Chapter Books, ages 6-10
Recommended for: Ages 4-10

Lulu and Mellie’s grandmother (Nan) is staying with them while their parents are away, and the book opens with the three of them pondering what’s in the large bag left on their doorstep. It is, of course, a big orange cat who happens to love flowers. Animal-loving Lulu, of course, is delighted with a new animal; non-animal-loving Nan is not. Adventures ensue, secrets are kept and revealed, and all’s well that ends well. I won’t give away the ending, but all young cat lovers are sure to enjoy this installment of Lulu’s adventures.

Information about the Series: The Lulu books form a noteworthy chapter book series: tightly written with just the right ratio of words to pictures. Great characterization, good plot resolution, and solid relationships make these books winners. Lulu is resourceful, childlike, concerned about animals, and struggles with obeying her parents. She is close with her parents and also with her cousin Mellie. The books each feature an animal-related adventure in which Lulu is trying to save an animal with her cousin Mellie’s help. Humor, early-elementary-level adventure, and consequences for Lulu’s actions (both responsible and irresponsible) make these books a perfect fit for young readers transitioning from the easy reader stage to longer chapter books. Illustrations are well done and add to the story. Both boys and girls will enjoy these, but young girls who have a bleeding heart for animal rescue will especially enjoy them.

Related Titles: Lulu and the Duck in the Park, Lulu and the Hedgehog in the Rain, Lulu and the Dog from the Sea, Lulu and the Rabbit Next Door

Cautions: none

Overall Value: 4.25 (out of 5)

• Moral/worldview value: 4
• Artistic value: 4.5

Categories: Chapter Books, Girls, Animals, Realistic Fiction, Character Values (responsibility, kindness)