My children, (ages 12 and 9), enjoyed this book with its snappy, rhyming text and lively illustrations. The mean girl, Catty Wompus, is drawn with just the right balance of attractive and repellent features: with big green eyes, but a slightly scary oversized head and an angry scribble of hair. Catty Wompus is the kind of girl most kids steer clear of, but the protagonist, Lucy Hope, sets out to test the theory that "good friends are made by being one." Lucy confronts Catty Wompus, treats her like a friend, and wins her over. The lesson of the story is powerful: that we have the power to change other people. The clever "ending" lets the implications ripple like a pebble tossed in the water.
Cathy P.

As a father of a one-year old who has an ravenous appetite for books (figuratively and literally), this is the one book that consistently holds his attention read after read. The illustrations are beautifully drawn and Howe's story line makes it a book for everyone in the family (young and old) to read and enjoy again and again. I know that as my son grows that this will be an important book in his development in being a good person and a good friend. I look forward to the day he will muster the courage to be a friend to his Catty Wompus.
David G.

As a father of three children under the age of six, I teach my children that we all have love in us, and when others may seem difficult or mean that those people may need our love to help their love shine through. Catty Wompus is a beautifully illustrated story that conveys this message. After reading Catty Wompus to my four year old (for the third time - because he wouldn't let me put it down), he said, "I know a Catty Wompus." We discussed the Catty Wampus in his life and how he could `be' around this person. A glow lit up in his eyes when he realized that his Catty Wampus had love in him. I am not sure how he acted the next day at school towards his Catty, but I am sure that the message that I try so hard to communicate has been helped along by the story of Catty Wampus.
Carl M.

I am not a parent, but I would definitely recommend this book be purchased for all children. Frankly, i love reading it and know children of all ages that enjoy and relate to it. This book is about a real life situation that any child can relate to......it is a great teaching tool!!The writing and illustrations work very good together. It is an adorable and genuine book. Stephanie T. I plan on buying copies for all the kiddos in my life :) Catty Wompus gets students thinking, talking and writing When a friend introduced me to "Catty Wompus", I instantly recognized it as an effective teaching tool that would help meet several literacy and social-emotional objectives. Best of all, my students loved the clever text, colorful and fun illustrations, and its very significant message. My fourth graders followed intently as I read Catty and Lucy's story. I then modeled a "comprehension synthesis" activity with the students providing input. Julie Howe keeps her theme alive throughout the story, and my class clearly understood the characters' personalities, motives, and thoughts. I followed with a writing activity focused on empathy and values; needless to say, the results were heartfelt and tender. Every public and school library, teacher bookshelf, and social worker's/schoolpsychologist's office would be enhanced by "Catty Wompus." I hope to see more of Catty and Lucy!
Jane G.

As a Kindergarten Special Education teacher, I place a strong emphasis on building character through teaching kindness and responsibility in my classroom. I have used the book, Catty Wompus - A Tale of Friendship, in my room for two years. This book leads to wonderful discussion with the students on how to be understanding and kind, even when it is the difficult choice to make. Every child that I have read this to has been able to relate to the topic on a personal level. The book contains a powerful message for young children, as well as to the adult reading it! The wording is fun and poetic. The rhythmical movement, along with the colorful and playful illustrations, makes this a highly enjoyable book to read over and over. It is a classroom favorite. This is a book every child, parent, teacher or grandparent should have in their personal library. The book is a reminder that we can touch another person's life through kindness and understanding, even when we have been hurt. The lesson this book carries is timeless and ageless! I highly recommend Catty Wompus - A Tale of Friendship to everyone, regardless of age. I personally have two in my classroom and one on my coffee table at home!
Joannie G.