A tiny cat searching for a special spot, a misunderstood dog, and a tribe of squirrels and birds, plus one bewildered mouse, come together in this free-verse narrative about being lost and finding one's place. One day a dancing leaf beckons to Patches, and soon the cat has wandered far from home. She takes shelter in a doghouse, and grumpy canine Gus is none too pleased when he discovers his house guest. He comes around, however, once he realizes Patches needs a safe place to give birth. When she lets Gus name a kitten and calls another Gustina in honor of her host, a bond is cemented between the two. Complications arise when Gus becomes possessive of "his" kittens, and Patches' human girl needs to be found, but, happily, a host of animals and people come to help. Newbery Honor Book author Bauer (On My Honor, 1987) has written a poetic and charming tale for young readers, bolstered by Bell's adorable, breezy illustrations. Animal lovers will want to take this home pronto.

Gr 2-5 An inquisitive little calico house cat, on the prowl for a special place all her own, slips through a loose window screen and finds herself outside, where falling golden leaves lure her far away from home. At first, one may think that a cat wandering through town does not make for much of a story. But with deliberate pacing, the feline's adventures escalate, and while her boldness grows, so do readers' trepidations. Indeed, the ensuing encounter with the meanest dog in town reaches climactic suspense, but readers still don't know why the little cat named Patches is seeking a place of her ownthough there are some clues. Written in free verse and using concrete poetry elements interspersed with charming black-and-white drawings, the book engages on many levels. The writing in verse shows careful use of words; each sentence is spare but laden with meaning that moves the story forward. The use of free verse also makes the narration intimate and immediate, pulling readers right into the events. The story at its most basic is about families and love, but other themes are present, such as friendship, neglect, bravery, and determination. This is an endearing tale that is told with warmth and humor and a great understanding of love. This companion novel to Little Dog, Lost (S. & S., 2012) shines all on its own. VERDICT A good buy for young readers, whether they are animal lovers or not, and equally appealing to reluctant and voracious readers. Gretchen Crowley, Alexandria City Public Libraries, VA