Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 07/01/2021 PreS-Gr 2—A look at the ennui experienced by a sardonic housecat. First there were Penguin Problems, then Giraffe Problems, and now the domestic cat is getting its chance. This plot-free stream of kitty consciousness follows the trials and tribulations of a well-tended house cat as it tries to fill its day #catproblems. A sampling of the problems the cat encounters include a disappearing sunbeam, a nearly empty food bowl, the other cat innocently sleeping in all the "best" places ("I think that cat might be my greatest enemy in the entire house."), the monster/vacuum cleaner, boredom, lack of ability to let themselves out, and a sassy squirrel on the other side of the window. (Post-Covid -19 lockdown some of these problems may hit a little close to the home.) Each problem elicits a sardonic, first-person response often directed at readers. After being schooled by a squirrel as to how good they have it being cared for inside, the cat responds with, "How can I eat this very talkative squirrel?" Smith's texture-filled illustrations are as expected in the best possible way. His combination of panels, and single- and double-page spreads put the cat with all the expression-filled, big-eyed attitude front and center. Ranging in size, location, and font, the text works perfectly with the illustrations. VERDICT As story flows from one problem to the next, readers will want to let cat out for just a little bit—or maybe revisit the first two books for more problems.—Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Lib., Troy, NH - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 08/01/2021 *Starred Review* The Animal Problems series (Penguin Problems, 2016; Giraffe Problems, 2018) continues here with cats. Everyone knows that cats believe they are in charge of the household, if not the world, and this unnamed cat is no different. Sleeping, eating, and cleaning itself are its primary occupations, but daily time also must be spent bossing around the other pet cat, escaping the vacuum monster, and surveying every room in the house. After scratching some furniture, playing with a ball of aluminum foil, and sitting in a box, the cat feels vaguely bored. If only it could go outside! The cat’s hilariously incessant monologue is interrupted by the arrival of a squirrel peering through the window. The squirrel floods a two-page spread with a lecture on how lucky the cat is, explaining how much harder life is outdoors and admonishing the cat to stop complaining. Meanwhile, the cat wonders how it could possibly eat the squirrel. Smith’s signature style captures the cat’s every emotion through its expressive eyes and tail and posture. A final touch of humor comes from the author and illustrator bios, written by William and Lulu, cats who live with John and Smith. Great fun, even—or especially?—if you don’t have a cat. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.