A Girl, a Boy, and a Monster Cat

This humorous chapter book follows Brandon, a boy who'd rather watch TV, as he's sent to Hannah's house for after-school care. Hannah, a highly imaginative girl, constantly casts him in dull roles in her elaborate games, much to his chagrin. Even her large cat, Buttercup, gets more exciting parts. The dynamic shifts dramatically when a new neighbor arrives with Bucky, a tiny but fierce chihuahua. This new, real-life "monster" provides Hannah with fresh material, and Buttercup's territorial, mischievous responses make reality far more thrilling than any imaginary game. Perfect for 2nd and 3rd graders, this book explores themes of friendship, imagination, and finding joy in unexpected places, all wrapped in a lighthearted, engaging narrative.

Sam's house would have been the perfect place for Brandon to go after school. The big-screen TV is on all the time, and Sam is a boy. Instead, Brandon's mom sends him to Hannah's, where he is forced to play imaginary games in which Hannah is always the hero. Even the cat, Buttercup, gets more exciting roles than Brandon. Then a new neighbor moves in with a tiny dog who is actually quite fierce. He gives Hannah lots of material for games, but when Buttercup defends her territory with some malicious tactics, reality becomes much more exciting than fiction. With humor perfect for 2nd and 3rd graders, Gail is certain to win over this younger audience.