Lies, Brian. Cat Nap. Brian Lies, Illus. Greenwillow, 09/2025. [48]pp. Picture Book. Trade $19.99. 978-0-06-267128-8. GRADES Preschool–3. OUTSTANDING.
Woken from a doze, a kitten pursues a fleeing mouse through an art exhibit poster and into a world of Metropolitan Museum treasures. A repeating refrain asks “Does Kitten follow? Of course he does.” The chase propels Kitten into a series of artworks—into medieval stained glass, past a Mblo portrait mask, and into a Georgia O’Keefe. In each encounter, Kitten’s appearance morphs to match the piece. Brief, alliterative, poetic text narrates the often humorous and occasionally dramatic interactions. The simple story leaves plenty of room for readers to marvel at the transformations. Each artwork was painstakingly created in three dimensions, then photographed. Substantial back matter, illustrated by photographs, describes the fun and challenge of the art-making process. All original works are pictured and described. An excellent choice for inspiring imagination and creativity in a school/library story time or home setting.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired