The Big Storm

Joan Weller is Head Librarian at the West Branch of the Ottawa Public
Library.

This picture book for children aged 4 to 7 tells a warm story of a
child’s love for her pet cat and the cat’s devotion to her young
mistress. Told in a simple style, with just the right touches of
suspense, the story recounts how young Jeanette and her cat, Kitty
Doyle, become separated during a snowstorm. Life in the cosy family
apartment above an urban deli shows the little girl interacting with her
affectionate Momma and Poppa.

Kovalski’s illustrations, familiar to readers from her other books
(Frank and Zelda, Brenda and Edward, Jingle Bells, and Take Me Out to
the Ballgame), evoke the book’s Depression setting through subdued
interiors awash in warm tones and realistic street scenes covered in
falling snow. The appealing characters are soft in outline, and friendly
and affectionate in portrayal.

As with all superior picture books, there is a good balance between
text and illustration. Ideal for lap-reading or group storytelling, The
Big Storm, with its satisfying ending, is sure to please the
picture-book set.