Review: 'I Am Tama, Lucky Cat: A Japanese Legend' by Wendy Henrichs

I Am Tama, Lucky Cat: A Japanese Legend, by Wendy Henrichs, Illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi, 2011, Peachtree, $16.95, hardbound, 29 pages. Category/Genre: legend. Cover: beautiful. Where we got it: publisher. Where you can get it: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books-A-Million. 


This book is a re-telling of the Japanese legend of Maneki Neko, the Beckoning Cat, or Lucky Cat. 

In this book, Tama makes a long journey in search of food and shelter. His search brings him to a poor monk in a run-down temple. The monk takes Tama in and takes care of him even though he has little food even for himself. In return, Tama catches mice and gives the monk his warmth and friendship. 

Then one day Tama finds a way to give the monk he loves even more. 

This is a lovely and touching story, well told and with beautiful artwork that suits the Japanese-style prose. Kids and adults alike will fall in love with this tale. 

For ages five and up. 

If you like this one, try: Suggestions? 

Don't forget to check out the other sites on the tour!

Contest on PTP blog (www.peachtreepub.blogspot.com) (I'll also be debuting our historical fiction pinterest board on this day).