Planetary-Yum (Waffles and Pancake #1)

In this kitten-focused spin-off of Brockington's CatStronauts series, siblings Pancake (a tan cat in a purple rainbow shirt) and Waffles (a cream kitty sporting a yellow fish top) are eager to visit the Big City Science Museum. Before heading to Mom-Cat's house, the siblings and Dad-Cat make their way through the museum's feline-inspired exhibits, which feature saber-toothed specimens in the hall of dino-cats, 4-D hairballs with an attendant gross-out video, and a planetarium: "The ancient cats saw pictures in groups of stars." When the end of a CatStronauts-centered space tour finds the kittens separated from Dad-Cat, they show good judgment in asking for help--then contemplate what a "FUR-EVER" museum visit would involve. Filled with humorous catchphrases ("That's one small step for cats, one giant pounce for feline-kind") and regular, enthusiastic meal breaks (the family stuffs food into their faces with comedic tenacity), Brockington's anthropomorphic world is rendered in blocky shapes and bright colors. If the plot seems a little lean, a focus on fostering interests and family fun--"My favorite part was all of it," says Dad-Cat--proves winning. Ages 6-9. (Sept.)

Gr 1-3--In this spin-off of Brockington's immensely popular "CatStronauts" series, kittens Waffles and Pancake are spending the weekend with their dad. Before the young cats head home to their mother's house, they and their dad stop off at the science museum in the Big City. While exploring the museum, the cat family gets separated and the kittens imagine the fun and worries of living in the museum. Thankfully they are soon reunited and the kittens get safely home to Mom-Cat's house. Young readers will enjoy this accessible, full-color graphic novel. While some of the vocabulary is somewhat complex for emerging independent readers, the illustrations offer helpful context. The kittens are cute and funny, and children will relate to the fun and excitement of visiting a museum. Young readers whose parents don't live together will appreciate the inclusion of this family perspective. Fans of the original "CatStronauts" series, as well as slightly younger readers, will enjoy this Earth-bound story of these kitten characters. VERDICT This silly, colorful tale will appeal to graphic novel enthusiasts over a wide range of reading levels.--Ellen Conlin, Naperville P.L., IL