Chester's Masterpiece - by Melanie Watt (Paperback)

About the Book

Chester's finally ready to write his own masterpiece --- he just needs to get pesky writer-illustrator Mélanie Watt out of the way.Chester's solo attempts at storytelling are messy, to say the least, but he's determined to go it alone. But where's his story going? After several alternative (but always unhappy) endings, Chester is confronted by a problem he never bargained for. A wry comment on the creative process and how good stories are constructed, this is the most uproarious Chester book yet.

Book Synopsis

Chester's finally ready to write his own masterpiece -- he just needs to get Melanie Watt out of the way! A wry take on the creative process and how good stories are constructed.

When Chester (the cat) announces he's taking over for Melanie Watt on this book due to some technical difficulties*, Melanie begs to differ. She tells him that no one will want to publish his messy book. And she demands that he return her supplies so she can get to work. Chester insists he can create the best, most original story anyone has ever read in their entire nine lives. Only, his attempts don't quite work. Even with Melanie's prodding, Chester struggles to find his own story to tell. Hmm ... will the real author and illustrator have the last laugh after all?

*Melanie's art supplies and computer mouse have mysteriously gone missing.

Here's another hilarious Chester picture book from award-winning and bestselling author-illustrator Melanie Watt. The story is told through the dialogue between Watt, who communicates on sticky notes, and Chester, whose comments are tucked around his creations, which sprawl across the spreads and include loads of tape, staples, and torn-out notebook paper. Chester himself, as drawn by Watt, and his trusty red marker dominate the action, and the pure silly fun makes this a popular read-aloud. Bits of humor can be found all over the pages -- including running commentary from an actual mouse -- encouraging visual literacy. With its wry take on the creative process and how good stories are constructed, this is also a perfect companion to lessons on the parts of story, including genre, setting, plot and characters.

Review Quotes

The back and forth conversation between character and creator, along with the visual and verbal energy Watt brings to every project she undertakes, keeps us glued to the page.--Quill & Quire

The clever concept still works, and the warring banter will have readers eagerly flipping the pages, up to the laugh-out-loud conclusion.--Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

The tongue-in-cheek back and forth dialogue between the cat and his off-scene author will be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.--School Library Journal

There are plenty of giggles along the way, and the author's revenge (not to mention Chester's hiding place for her supplies) will elicit gales of laughter. A must purchase, especially where the first two are loved.--Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

This dialogue vividly conveys what books are all about - genre, setting, plot, heroes, ending - in uproarious fashion.--Booklist

About the Author

Melanie Watt is an acclaimed children's book author and illustrator. Her books include the Scaredy Squirrel, Chester and Learning With Animals series, Augustine, Leon the Chameleon and Have I Got a Book for You! She lives near Montreal.