Book details
The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale
Description
In this playful homage to Charles Dickens, Skilley, an alley cat with an embarrassing secret, longs to escape his street-cat life. Hoping to trade London's damp alleyways for the warmth of ye olde Cheshire Cheese Inn, Skilley strikes a bargain with Pip, an erudite mouse. Skilley will protect the mice who live at the inn, and in turn, the mice will provide Skilley with the thing he desires most. But when Skilley and Pip are drawn into a crisis of monumental proportions, their new friendship is pushed to its limits. The escalating crisis threatens the peace not only of the Cheshire Cheese Inn but the entire British Monarchy!New York Times best-selling author Carmen Agra Deedy and coauthor Randall Wright collaborate on this compelling story set in Victorian England. With the artwork of award-winning illustrator Barry Moser, The Cheshire Cheese Cat is filled with charming characters and strong themes of friendship and loyalty.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
229 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Storytelling: 'The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale' is known for its captivating narrative that combines historical fiction with a whimsical twist. The storytelling style of Carmen Agra Deedy is both engaging and entertaining, making it a delightful read for both children and adults.
- Unique Characters: The book features a cast of memorable characters, including a cheese-loving cat named Skilley and a literary mouse named Pip. Their unique personalities and unlikely friendship provide a heartwarming tale that teaches valuable lessons about friendship and acceptance.
- Historical Setting: Set in Victorian London, the novel offers a glimpse into the past, with references to Charles Dickens and the era's culture. This historical backdrop not only enriches the story but also provides an educational aspect, making it a great way to learn about history in an enjoyable context.
- Language and Wordplay: The author's use of language is both clever and playful, with puns and wordplay that will delight readers who appreciate linguistic humor. The book also introduces vocabulary in a way that is accessible to young readers, helping to expand their language skills while enjoying the story.