Fabian Escapes

Hondo the dog and Fabian the cat are back, and this time, it's Fabian's turn for an outdoor adventure. After Hondo returns from a normal walk around the block, the cat leaps out the window. McCarty contrasts each pet's parallel activities in humorous ways: Fabian smells—and eats—flowers, while Hondo goes for the butter in the kitchen. Signature pencil illustrations are as meticulously rendered and palely luminous as ever, yet often belie benign-sounding textual details. When Fabian "meets the neighbors," McCarty depicts a stare-down between cat and three intent-looking dogs. Opposite "The neighbors are happy to play chase with their new friend," the dogs pursue Fabian, who runs flat out. Hondo, ready for another walk (after dress-up play with the household toddler, and extensive napping), encounters Fabian, bolting inside after spending a good part of the day hiding under the porch. Beautifully composed, well-balanced text and illustrations result in a lovely reprise of Hondo and Fabian (2002), a Caldecott Honor title. Children will enjoy the story's gentle, rhythmic exploration of pet relationships. (Picture book. 3-6)