Binky: License to Scratch

Binky:  License to Scratch
by Ashley Spires
Kids Can Press, 2013
Previewed from Edelweiss
Audience:  Grades 2 to 4
ISBN:  9781554539635
Publication Date:  September 1, 2013

Binky the Space Cat is back with his partner Gracie and their newest recruit, Gordie.  This time they are not worried about aliens, but about the fact that their people are leaving and sending them to a pet hotel that turns out to be the vet's office!  Our resourceful heroes must escape, but not before Binky has a chance to find out what the strange shadow that has been haunting the vet's office is all about.  Then it is up to Binky and his partners to save themselves, and the vet's office!

Like other Binky the Space Cat adventures, the pictures tell most of the story.  There is actually very little reading in this book if you don't count the sound effect-type words.  But the pictures do a wonderful job of telling the story and readers will enjoy the various expressions and situations that are illustrated.

Since book awards are in the forefront of my mind, I wonder why Binky has not turned up on the Monarch or Bluestem.  I personally think he would make a great Bluestem book and I do think that graphic novels should get more attention from the award committees.  Well, there's only one way to change that.  I'll just have to infiltrate the Bluestem committee.  I wonder if Binky and Gordie could help me come up with a plan?

If you know a reader that is an animal lover, or just likes a quick graphic novel, this book is for them!

Happy Reading!