Scotton's illustrations are just so gorgeous, your brain smiles first, then your eyes, and then finally your mouth. Everything smiles when you stare at these pics.
Splat's fur is so soft and fuzzy, you could reach out and feel it. His lustrous google eyes. The glassy shimmer of the baubles on the Christmas tree. It's all so touchable. And smileable. It's truly mesmerising.
And if the illustrations aren't enough, there's the story, which is also a whole lot of fun.
When Splat's sister puts a serious case of doubt in his mind about whether or not he's been good enough to receive presents from Santa, our coal-black friend takes pains to show his mum how utterly helpful and good he can be... decorating the already-decorated tree, washing the already-washed dishes... and the scene where Splat opens the front door to help scoop the snow (with a teensy sand spade) and a drift collapses on top of him, is laugh-out-loud.
Ditto the pages where Splat lies awake in bed at night, checking if Santa is indeed going to arrive... shining his torch into every nook and cranny, wide-eyed and desperate for a sign... just hilarious.
And does Santa arrive? Is Splat a good good cat? Well, you'll have to read it and see.
Scrumdiddlyumptious.
Publisher: HarperCollins, A$14.99
Publication Date: 1 October 2009
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9780007326259
For ages: 3-6
Type: Picture Book
Type: Picture Book
This book is available online
