Written by Ree Drummond & Illustrated by Diane deGroat
SUMMARY:
Published by HarperCollins in 2013, this 34-page hardcover storybook is the sequel to author Ree Drummond’s Charlie the Ranch Dog. It’s Christmas Eve for Charlie the Basset Hound’s family at their snowy ranch home. Charlie takes an extended snooze, only to wake up and meet the new family member: an orange tabby kitten. Initially mistaking the kitten for a rabbit, Charlie senses dire reality setting in. This new kitty is there to stay. Trying his best to ignore the kitten, the basset hound finally resorts to baying. Realizing that his efforts are futile, Charlie is thrilled to find that the kitten is a natural masseuse gladly willing to knead his ‘aching’ back. Yet, one more Christmas surprise awaits Charlie, as a new Basset puppy named Walter arrives wearing a collar with Charlie’s name on the gift tag.
REVIEW:
Exceptionally well-illustrated by artist Diane deGroat, this formulaic second Charlie book is a sheer delight! Author Ree “The Pioneer Woman” Drummond’s poignant text is occasionally hilarious depicting Charlie’s bemused canine point-of-view. For youngsters who adore dogs and basset hound aficionados alike, Charlie and the Christmas Kitty makes a wonderful holiday treat. The book is also an ideal treat for infants and toddlers before bedtime/naps.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Illustrated with an image of Charlie wearing a Santa hat, there is a single-page recipe for “Charlie’s Favorite Christmas Cookies.”
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars
