Fiona and the Peculiar Praise - by Rennie Dyball (Hardcover)

About the Book

Fiona is a cat who does amazing things all day long, but the only thing people seem to talk about is how cute and pretty she is--leading to some hilarious frustration on her part and, ultimately, new understanding about what really matters.

Book Synopsis

The Cat Who Wanted More Than Cute

Meet Fiona, short for Queen Fiona of Apartment 4C. She's clever, brave, resourceful, and very, very helpful. Why then do her family and neighbors only praise her for her beauty? Fiona knows she is so much more than "pretty" and "cute"--she is smart and strong too.
Through playful adventures, Fiona and the Peculiar Praise reinforces for young readers that what matters more than our looks is who we are and what we do. Being appreciated for our actions, intelligence, and accomplishments is the type of praise that really matters to cats like Fiona--and kids like ours.

Review Quotes

A humorous reminder that cuteness is overrated, and some cats are not to be underestimated.

When Fiona, a fluffy white house cat, wakes Mom for breakfast in the morning, Mom says: "Too early, pretty kitty." Then, when she helps with a rogue mouse, the neighbor calls her "Lovely." In the evening, she chases a new toy, entertaining everybody with her acrobatics, and they call her "cute." At dinner, Fiona sits on a laptop, and Dad asks: "Is it dinnertime, Gorgeous?" Fiona is fed up. "'GORGEOUS?!' THAT'S IT. I am OUT of patience now. I've done amazing things today, but all anyone can talk about is the way I look!" Finally, her human "sister" Lou (who has brown hair and light skin) says, "You know what I love about Fiona... I love how smart she is!" To Fiona's relief, Lou goes on to acknowledge all that Fiona does for the family. Diaz's full-page cartoon illustrations in pastel tones highlight Fiona's dynamism. The illustrations bring the prose to life; readers see Fiona's bravery, strength, and athleticism in action, as well as her expressive face. The first-person narration in Fiona's voice adds weight to her dissatisfaction with being objectified. The story's energetic pace mirrors Fiona's busy day as well as her frustration, building to the dinner-table climax before the comforting ending.
-Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Rennie Dyball is an award-winning author of 17 books and counting, ranging from picture books to equestrian novels and adult nonfiction. Much to Fiona's dismay, she is actually more of a dog person. Learn more about Rennie at www.renniedyball.com.