"Twinkie is playful and has a soft meow. Her eyes sparkle black and orange. She has a sweet, playful personality, except when she is angry or scared."
 |
Twinkie Has a New Home by Hala Riad Trafford Publishing
book review by Karolina Blaha-Black
This picture book is about Twinkie, a stray kitten, who is looking for a loving home. She encounters some obstacles in her quest, such as being chased by Chuckles, a neighborhood dog, who scares her and chases her into a bush. Finally, after some trials, Twinkie ends up in the arms of Jenna, a little girl who loves animals and who gives Twinkie a forever home. Twinkie is up for a surprise, however, when she meets Puddles the poodle in Jenna's home, and they soon become best friends.
Riad's book has a very attractive, glossy cover featuring an orange cat. Quality photographs of kittens, dogs, and Jenna are scattered throughout the text. The story itself is perfect for small children who like animals, and the print and the photos are big enough for them to read and see. This is also a good book for parents to read aloud to their children. There are, however, punctuation and stylistic errors which make it harder to follow the text. Readers would also benefit from seeing photos of Puddles, the poodle, who has a part in the story, but is not present in the pictures.
Riad, a counseling psychologist, has worked with children most of her life. Her book is a good read for kids who want to learn more about animals and their world.