Kitty Fantastic in Manroes Art Adventure is a 40-page

childrens book written by the accomplished and

award-winning illustrator Pamela Key. Her intent in writing

this book is clear in this passage from the book:

“If a kid does any kind of art at least three hours a day, three

days a week, for a year he or she is four times more likely to

win an award for writing or be recognized for academic

achievement and three times more likely to be elected to

class office or win an award for school attendance.”

There is no doubt that this is an excellent book and could

easily be one of the best I have seen. The art is amazing -

especially the backgrounds, which are full of colorful

textures and blends. Another noticeable feature was the

bright, almost realistic eyes of Pamelas characters.

Monroe, a curious little boy filled with questions, has a

conversation with his artistically inclined mother about the

many various forms of art. Everything from writing, music,

pottery and painting are covered in their discussion. A

lovable egomaniac cat is Monroes best friend and he

appears on each scene with cunning comments. Fun

activity sheets (four in total) mentally stimulate children and

help develop the ability to focus on details.

The way the book is illustrated and written allows for plenty

of dialogue between the reader and children. They can seek

out images together and discuss what is happening. Also

every-other page has a small box with extra historical facts.

Such as: science-fiction author Jules Verne writing about air

and water travel 100 years before it was possible; and the

adventure of Dolly Madison who risked her life to safe

important national treasures.

Kitty Fantastic in Manroes Art is a fun and stimulating book

for learning historical lessons and as an introduction to art

and as such, the book would be ideal for groups of children

at schools, libraries and even daycare centers. Children are

not the only people that can be enlightened by this book - my

husband and myself were both educated about “surrealism”

and more. I was also particularly partial to the author

making sure it is understood that each person has their

own art and express thoughts and emotions through it in

their own unique way.

I heartily recommend this book!

ISBN#: 0-9771971-1-5

Authored and Illustrated by: Pamela Key

Publisher: A Better Be Write Publisher

Book Reviewer: Lillian Brummet - Co-author of the book

Trash Talk, a guide for anyone concerned about his or her

impact on the environment Author of Towards

Understanding, a collection of poetry.

(http://www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit)