Squishy McFluff, the Invisible Cat: Secret Santa by Pip Jones

Squishy McFluff, the Invisible Cat: Secret Santa by Pip Jones
Ill. by Ellie Okstad. Faber and Faber, 2015. ISBN 9780571302567
Squishy McFluff is so sweet, you'll be smitten.
Such a clever and funny invisible kitten!
Imagine the fun of having a cat that only you can see, especially when it is really good at inventing great things to do like playing hide-and-seek at which he is world champion. This is Ava's luck. She has a big imagination and is happiest when she's playing with her cat, even though it can lead to trouble - which is exactly what happens in this latest addition to this series.
It's nearly Christmas and Ava and Squishy are very excited. But there are still preparations to be made, like buying the last minute things which means going into town where all is decorations and celebrations. The trouble begins when Ava spots the wonky star at the top of the Christmas tree. The next day it is time to wrap the presents and when Mum says to wrap EVERYTHING, she is taken at her word. For someone who was trying to be good through all of December, this might not have a pretty ending for Ava, but she has one special thing she wants so she writes Santa a letter.
Young children will love this series from this English author as it holds many laughs and just a little bit of naughty. Written in rhyme it bounces along and Ella Okstad's limited-palette illustrations are charming, capturing the essence of the text perfectly.
For those who can't get enough of him, there's a website with extra information and more fun and games at http://squishymcfluff.com/ This is something a little bit different to offer those just getting started on their independent reading journey who need a bit of support through short chapters, larger font and uncomplicated vocabulary - I think they will be eagerly awaiting the next adventure. Perfect for putting aside for this year's Christmas Countdown.
Barbara Braxton