Book Review: Lucas the Spy Cat (2022) by Samantha Shannon and illustrated by Lei Yang

My thanks to BooksGoSocial for a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

Written in simple verse and with vivid and appealing artwork, Lucas the Spy Cat (2022) is a picture and activity book by Samantha Shannon and illustrated by Lei Yang.  

The books opens with the story of Lucas, whose human sisters are interested to know what adventures he goes on when he steps out each night. They decide to find out by fitting a spycam in his collar, but before the ‘results’ come in, indulge in a little imagination, trying to think up what kinds of things Lucas might be getting up to—solving cases perhaps, or problems other animal friends have? Or even curing some animal pals who are hurt? But in the end the girls assume, the animals most certainly have a party—and as current-day animals, with music, dancing and taking selfies! When Lucas actually returns, the girls are excited to see the truth, but a surprise awaits them and us!

This is a cute little story about something anyone with cats (those that are allowed out or ‘escape’ sometimes) are sure to wonder—what do they get up to when they’re out and about? The author has included both scenarios from the children’s imaginations and what really turns out—both great fun.

What the Girls Imagine Lucas’ Adventures Are Like (art by Lei Yang)

The verse format is enjoyable to read and fast-moving, and the artwork is lovely and colourful with not only Lucas and the girls but also an assortment of animal friends he might meet out on his adventures. I especially loved that photographs of the real-life Lucas and his (cat) sister, Nemo were included at the end.

Lucas and Pals Having a Party (by Lei Yang)

After the story are also activity pages including a word-finding puzzle, hidden images, counting the cats, and space for the kids to create their own adventure with Lucas, pages children can spend a fair bit of time with after they’ve finished reading or between reads. There are also some helpful tips for teachers and adults working with children for activities to help increase creativity, the key to developing different ways of thinking and much problem solving across one’s life. A great book for the intended audience for both the story and the many other fun activities (on the pages and which teachers/parents can have them do with the prompts given) it will allow them to enjoy.

Book details: Rawlings Books, LLC, 2022; pp. 23.