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, 08:38, 24 April 2009
{{infobox
|title=Mr Pusskins - Best In Show
|author=Sam Lloyd
|reviewer=Keith Dudhnath
|genre=For Sharing
|summary=Mr Pusskins gets up to his usual sort of adventures - this time shying away from, then fully embracing a pet show. The fun adventure and delightful illustrations make this a fantastic picture book.
|rating=4.5
|buy=Yes
|borrow=Yes
|format=Paperback
|pages=32
|publisher=Orchard
|date=May 2009
|isbn=978-1846165252
|amazonuk=<amazonuk>1846165253</amazonuk>
|amazonus=<amazonus>1846165245</amazonus>
}}
When Emily reads that there's a pet show in town, she knows that Mr Pusskins would do wonderfully in the competition. Mr Pusskins doesn't think much of that idea, but is dragged along anyway. He has a change of heart when he sees the great big shiny trophy. He simply has to have it. But someone is plotting his downfall...
Sam Lloyd is on to a real winner with the Mr Pusskins series. Much like the [[Mr Pusskins and Little Whiskers by Sam Lloyd|previous installment]], ''Best In Show'' is awash with humour, adventure, gentle lessons, and excitement. It's great fun from start to finish, and will be adored by all young children. There's a little more text than in most picture books, meaning it's better for those just on the cusp of reading, but there's plenty to keep the attention of the youngest book fans too.
I also liked that, although everything works out in the end, Madame Fifi Fou-Fou's unfairness wasn't fully countered. Not every (mild) villain needs to get their come-uppance. Sometimes in life, things are unfair; sometimes all you can do is put something else right instead. It's not a lesson that's hammered home in ''Best In Show'', but it is there if parents and children want to explore it.
As always, Sam Lloyd's illustrations are superb. Mr Pusskins is so expressive. It's fantastic to see his progression from regular cat, to pampered and preened cat show entrant, then to scruffy moggy. Even when he's scratching at the bed, he's a cat that you'd love to stroke and cuddle. He's got just the right amount of attitude for a cat: enough to be aloof when he needs to be, but he will still come back to you to feel loved. He's a brilliant character. Recommended.
Thanks to the publishers for sending it to Bookbag.
[[Mimi and Moochie Go Shopping by Margaret Chamberlain]] is another fun tale involving cats. [[Posy by Linda Newbery and Catherine Rayner]] is just delightful. Those who are just starting out with books will want to check out [[Mr Pusskins - Colours by Sam Lloyd]].
{{amazontext|amazon=1846165253}} {{waterstonestext|waterstones=6373965}}
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