The Perfect Nest (review)

Jack the cat has a plan: he'll build the perfect nest, attract an egg-layer, and get himself the makings for a breakfast omelette. Much to his delight, the nest (complete with cushions, a fan, and Christmas lights) attracts not one but three birds—a chicken (who speaks Spanish), a duck (who speaks French), and a goose (who speaks enthusiastic American-ese). So begins the real-estate debate as all three avian mamas, after laying three perfect eggs, fight over who gets to stay. Realizing he'll never get the omelette if the birds don't leave, Jack executes a series of entertaining attempts to chase them out, ultimately succeeding with the invented promise of a much better nest at the next farm. In a surprise ending, Jack, already licking his chops in anticipation, watches as the three eggs hatch; rather than tucking into a meal, Jack finds himself cuddling up with the three baby birds in what turns out to be the perfect nest after all. This original tale is chock full of humor, characterization, and effective plot twists that will surprise young listeners. Jack is especially well developed, most notably in the way his priorities shift from getting a meal to making sure the babies (who call him "Mamá," "Maman," and "Ma," respectively) are safe and warm. Manders' loopily exaggerated gouache illustrations capitalize on the character development, depicting Jack vividly whether he's a ravenous cat, sly trickster, or bighearted softy, and clever details add amusement. This would be a riot to act out in a small group, but it would work as a lively readaloud, perhaps even as a surprisingly cozy bedtime tale.