CHATO AND THE PARTY ANIMALS

When his best friend does not share his exuberance for celebrations, Chato, the barrio’s favorite cat, takes matters into his own paws. “Everybody needs a birthday party,” says Chato. He and his friends decorate and cook, plan music, and party outrageously in honor of Novio Boy. But where’s the guest of honor? Kidnapped? Lost? As the friends reminisce, Novio Boy’s fine qualities rise to the fore. As listeners catch the rhythm and beat of a poignant celebration, Luis Guzman narrates with Spanish flair. The accompanying music is exuberant, and the vibrancy of Susan Guavera’s illustrations add to the swing of this fine story of friendship. A.R. 2004 Audie Award Winner © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 04]