Noriko Carroll

The tiny kitten sat alone in a window with a small sign that read "Looking for home. Will work for food." Finally, a nice couple gently picked her up and took her to live with them in their New York City apartment/photographer's studio. And, indeed, work for food she has. Happy Birthday, the Cat is a charming collection of illustrated tales by Birthday the cat. She tells about her adoption on her new owner's birthday, her trips to Central Park and Vermont, and her many photo shoots with other animals, such as parrots, ducks, and turtles. Throughout her stories of high adventure, the authors (and Birthday's owners), Don and Noriko Carroll, have lavishly illustrated the book with photos of their beloved cat. The combination makes for a compelling tale as told from the feline point of view. In picture after picture - Birthday drenched with water during her first bath, Birthday running from a mischievous parrot, Birthday with her beloved rolly ball held firmly in her mouth - the little cat entertains and delights with her sweet expressions and precious narrative. It's a book that's guaranteed to be a best-seller with cat lovers everywhere.