Crispin the Terrible

by Bob Morris

Crispin is a dignified cat with an undignified lifestyle. He lives with a family that simply doesn't appreciate him. (He feels.) If he's not blamed for things that he didn't do, then he is treated like a toy. Or worse, ignored as if he were a piece of furniture. In this witty picture book, children will be amused by Crispin's arch tone of voice and amazed by the adventures he dreams up in his intrepid, albeit imaginary, quest for an independent life, away from his "tormenting" family. Along the way, children will also learn, together with Crispin, a valuable lesson about the importance of a family's love over more selfish desires. The watercolor collage paintings that run throughout are absolutely magnificent. In each scene Crispin's naughty but lovable character shines as he embroils himself in humorous shenanigans. Children will love picking out all of the details in his varied surroundings. Parents will be delighted that Crispin The Terrible is not only a thoroughly enjoyable book, but touches on a child's first feelings of independence; and, at heart, promotes the message of family love.

Genres: Cats, Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2000

About the author

Robert Morris is an American novelist who writes Caribbean themed mysteries. He is previously known as a columnist for several newspapers and magazines.

Series:
* Zack Chasteen

Reviews

[Vicky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Crispin is not so terrible after all. He's just your typical Family Cat...or is he?

[Whole And · Rating 3 out of 5]

Crispin the cat does not feel appreciated at home and decides that things need to change. Through his imagination, Crispin travels and becomes an explorer! A samurai! A country cat! Until he realizes his family is searching for him and that they do in fact love him dearly.

A light and funny home coming story to remind us that we must show appreciation to one another and that running away is not always the best choice.

[The Brothers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Crispin, the family cat, is feeling a bit put upon and is scheming of ways of leaving his family to make them realize how much they'd miss him. He fantasizes about going to the country or to Japan, but in the end just opts for the closet. He gets the confirmation he's looking for and decides to remain the family cat.

Quirky and interesting illustrations.

[Melody · Rating 1 out of 5]

The illustrations were, to my eye at least, cobbled together and chaotic. There were mixtures of photography, scrapbookish things, and watercolor/ink. The style is not to my taste even a little. I found the text to be equally off-putting; both message-heavy and obvious.

[Haley Sterritt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another book that shows the love of family. The cat could represent the bad days and disagreements you might have in family and friends but you only have one family. Shows how to treat others and don't take people for granted.

[Meadow · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really, he is not that terrible of a cat.

[L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great illustrations and one wonderfully angsty cat.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great art. Conflicted cat...no shock there. Funny.