Crikey and Cat is another wonderful celebration of the power of imagination by Australian author and illustrator Chris McKimmie. The paint and collage illustrations remind me of the limitless possibilities open to children when their imagination takes flight.
It is possible to draw themes of friendship, cooperation and hope from the simple, sparsely-worded story, but for me the highlight of this book is the way it makes ideas come alive for readers, daring them to think outside the square.
If my children were still little, I would want to have paper, pens, scissors, paints and glue on hand after reading Chris McKimmie’s stories. I think that they inspire young readers to put their own ideas onto a page, which is a wonderful thing.
Crikey and Cat invites conversation and creativity from young children and as such, it is a great classroom activity resource. There are teachers’ notes available for this book.
Title: Crikey and Cat
Author/Illustrator: Chris McKimmie
Publisher: Allen & Unwin, $29.99 RRP
Publication Date: 25th June 2014
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760110031
For ages: 3-6
Type: Picture Book
