Hokkanen, Mirka. Bent Out of Shape. Mirka Hokkanen, Illus. Kitty & Cat. Candlewick, 11/2023. [32]pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-1-5362-2368-2. GRADES Preschool–1. ADDITIONAL.
Black Cat and white Kitty return in this shape-based concept book, with black Cat trying to avoid bathtime by hiding. As readers follow the clues to the various hiding places, each moved item reveals Cat contorted into the shape of that item. Then each shape (square, circle, triangle, etc.) becomes more complex than the previous. Simple digital illustrations show the white Kitty, Puppy, and a pair of flies enjoying chasing down where Cat is, while the off-page human repeats the phrases “Where’s Cat?” and “There’s Cat!” Young readers will enjoy the animal antics and seeing various subplots while trying to figure out where Cat is hiding next.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library