Baglio, B.M. (1994). Kittens in the Kitchen: Animal Ark Series. New York: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN: 9780590187497
· Plot Summary
The Animal Ark is a veterinary clinic in Yorkshire, owned by Adam and Emily Hope. In this first novel of the series, we are introduced to these characters, but are primarily entertained by the antics of their adopted daughter, thirteen year-old Mandy. As the story opens, Mandy has been assisted by her best friend (James) in taking care of a pregnant cat Mandy has named Walton, after their school. When Walton spurns the papers Mandy has given her for birthing her kittens, and ends up in the school janitor's laundry basket instead, Mr. Williams only gives Mandy one week to find homes for them-or else. After a series of near-misses, and solemn moments, Mandy manages to find homes for each of the four kittens. Mr. Williams relents, and allows Walton to remain, as his wife has become attached to the cat.
· Critical Evaluation
Best suited for early tweens and those with reading difficulties. This novel highlights a thirteen year-old heroine, but the content would more than likely bore someone of that age. A series of somewhat simplistic, and ungratifying, plot twists provide circumstances so that all of the kittens are adopted. The sentence structure is simple, and the characters are not well developed. It does contain some good messages regarding the care and ownership of animals, but they are often lost in the overly dramatic exhuberance/anger of the lead character (Mandy).
· Reader’s Annotation
Recommended for ages 9-12 on Amazon, but unlikely anyone over age 10 would enjoy this book unless they have learning difficulties or they're just very fond of animals stories.
· Genre
Fiction
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-5/Ages 9-10
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
This was a book purchased used for my daughter, because she was going away for the Summer, and I thought she might actually read a book if it was along simpler lines.
