Stretchy and Beanie by Judy Schachner (review)

Not long after the events in Stretchy McHandsome (BCCB 12/19), the feline McHandsomes are happily homed with the ragtag McBright kiddos. While each kooky cat has a wild human of their own, none are quite as perfectly matched as mischievous Stretchy and boisterous Beanie. There’s just one problem: Beanie thinks Stretchy should learn to be the “perfect pet,” one who listens, focuses, and stays still during her barrage of kisses. As Stretchy’s fans will already know, this isn’t his cup of tea, and Stretchy takes off. Schachner is in comfortable territory here, with rhythmic text, mixed media art, and cheerfully expressive characters. It’s easy to believe that Schachner knows a Beanie of her own (or perhaps was one herself) when watching Beanie dress Stretchy in dance clothes, strap him into a stroller, and cuddle him mercilessly. Luckily for both girl and cat, the McHandsomes and McBrights steer Beanie in a better direction, teaching her that cats are not dolls and need their own space and independence. Comical panels and lots of action keep the pet care lessons fun and kid-appropriate; seasoned feline caretakers will especially enjoy a spread where a leash-clad Stretchy teeters between stubbornly put-out and potentially homicidal. While the second Stretchy installment doesn’t shine as brightly as the first, this is still an enjoyable and educational romp with our favorite butterscotch boy.