John Burningham creates a dreamy, imaginary world where cats, kids, and a couple of dogs mingle in a night full of frolicking fun and fantasy that kids will love. The story is fanciful and friendly, definitely told with a certain Alice's Adventures In Wonderland flair. And the artwork is enchanting: Burningham's illustrations are simple yet stunningly creative. His
pencil-drawn, painted characters are cut out and placed against
backgrounds that are either absent of color or dark with the mystery of
night, all of which adds to the secret.
From the moment Marie Elaine discovers the cat decked out in a green feathered hat and red jacket, the adventure begins. Marie Elaine is able to change size, follow the cat through a maze of buildings, and even meet the queen at the rooftop dance. And in the end, curled up on the couch with the cat, the girl is awoken from her dream by her mother. Kids may not love the ending, but they will cherish and enjoy the journey.
Multi-media artwork that includes pencil drawings, collages, and paint is expressive and whimsical, and quite unique.