Toto the Ninja cat and the great snake escape by Dermot O'Leary

Ill. by Nick East. Hodder, 2017. ISBN 9781444939453
(Age: 7+) "Oh hi! You're here. Purrfect Timing! I wrote this story about my cat. This is TOTO and she's awesome. But she is no ordinary furry feline, my friends. She is almost totally blind, she has ninja skills and at night she has amazing adventures with her cheeky brother, Silver. Want to join them on their first great adventure? A deadly King Cobra has escaped, and TOTO's going to have to use all her powers to capture him . . . . "
For young readers who love books about animals this is bound to be a popular series. It would make a fantastic read aloud or be equally enjoyed by a child reading it by themselves. It is a purrfect fit for those wishing to read chapter books as the text is large and interspersed with gorgeous black and white illustrations. Underlying themes of friendship, inclusivity and facing adversity and winning it would make a great back to school read. I love the Q and A at the end of the book with O'Leary as it gives the reader an added insight into the book. Children will also appreciate the findaword. Toto will fast become a favourite with many. Suitable for ages 7 and up.
Kathryn Schumacher