Chato and the Party Animals

They say to "never judge a book by its cover," but this cover sold me. The cats look cool and suave, like they know how to have a good time. That's exactly what this book was- a good time. The illustrations perfectly matched the personalities of Chato and Novio boy. Chato likes to party, and when Novio tells him he's never had a birthday party before because he didn't know his birth date, Chato takes this is the perfect chance for him to through a grand, surprise party. I like the addition of Spanish words throughout the story as it made the story feel authentic, and the glossary of Spanish words in the front help to understand the context of the story.

I absolutley loved, loved, loved this book! My family is half Mexican and to read a book were Mexican culture is correctly presented is wonderful. I had trouble in the beginning determining the art medium, I went back and forth between paint or pastel, in the end i decided that it had to be paint. When you look close enough to the pictures you can see the brush strokes. It was nice to see how the pictures went along with the text. Every page was filled with different events and items and characters. I also enjoyed how the author used spanish words and put the meaning of the word next to it. The story was funny, authentic, witty and cute. I truly enjoyed this book for its colorful illustartions and its humor.

Humor, the value of friendship, and Mexican culture was all brought to life in this story with superior and vibrant illustrations. I would say the paintings or illustrations in this story was something that really set this book apart and held readers' attention throughout. The main character, Chato, exhibited true qualities of friendship, by learning that his friend, Novio Boy, strongly disliked attending birthday parties because it reminded him that he didn't know his own, nor had he ever had his own birthday party before. In attempt to uplift his friend, Chato decided to host a birthday party for Novio Boy, the very next day. Chato planned all the details that were typical in their birthday parties, including: ordering his favorite show more mouse cake, inviting all their friends, making traditional Mexican food, putting up a pinata, and setting up birthday games-not to mention that everyone had brought gifts! The only problem was, Novio boy was nowhere to be found on the day of his party and Chato forgot the most important part-to invite Novio Boy! At last, Novio Boy made his appearance after much searching and friends making statements about how much they missed him. Novio boy could not have been more excited or surprised! Novio boy told his scraggly cat friends that he brought with, "These guys are my familia (family)." The resolution to this story is what makes this relatable to children, as it gives hope that even though your family life or past experiences may not be pleasant, there can always be family found in friendship. show less

This book was so humorous. I enjoyed reading the Spanish words and it was even funnier because it is relatable. Chato throws his friend, Novio Boy, a surprise party because he was from the pound so he does not know when his birthday is. Novio Boy says he has no family and gets sad at birthday parties. Chato gathered everyone up for the party and forgot to invite the birthday boy. When he is finally found, Novio Boy feels so grateful and said that everyone who was at the party is his family. This book can teach children that some animals are rescue animals and that every stray animal has a story. They are just as important than any pet at someone's house.

"Chato and The Party Animals" is a multicultural story about Novio Boy, a stray cat who does not enjoy parties. Novio Boy grew up in the pound without a family and does not know when's his real birthday. His best friend, Chato, took it to his responsibility to cheer up and surprise Novio Boy with his very own birthday party. Chato makes plenty of food, buys a piñata, and invites the whole neighborhood. When it is time for the party, Novio Boy is extremely happy and is finally able to experience his first birthday party with all of his friends. The story ends with Novio Boy telling Chato that although he does not have his real family, he considers all of his friends as his own "familia". This book is enjoyable to read and demonstrates show more the meaning of a true friendship. Also, it is clear to see why it received the Pura Belpre illustrator award. The illustrations are colorful and captivate the readers attention. I love how the illustrator, Susan Guevara, drew the characters to where they perfectly match their descriptions in the text. Especially Chato, he is described to be a fun and cool cat. Based on the illustrations of Chato, I could definitely tell that he is one cool cat! Other than the incredible illustrations, I loved how the story mixed Spanish words in the English text. It made the story interesting and I also was able to learn Spanish words! The book had a glossary at the front of the book to translate what the Spanish words meant to those who do not know. My only complaint is that I wish it had the translation of the words on the pages they were on, instead of having to repeatedly go to the front of the book. Other than that, great book and it is perfect to read in a culturally diverse classroom. show less

Even though this book has words, the pictures steal the show and could stand on their own. Chato is a cool cat who lives in el barrio (the neighborhood) with all his alleycat friends. Chato’s friend, Novio Boy is sad because he is a pound kitty, he does not know his real family, and he has never had a birthday party. Chato and his friends throw Novio Boy a party and Novio finds his familia in his friends. The text mixes Spanish with English to introduce young readers to Spanish words. Susan Guevara’s illustrations are very bright and expressive and intensify the meaning of the text.

I have mixed feelings about this book. One thing I like about the book is the plot. When Chato realized that Novio Boy did not know when his birthday was because he was from the pound, he automatically tried to make him feel better and gave him his own birthday party. This can be connected to young children and how some are adopted and may feel out of place when it comes to things like birthday parties. One reason I did not like the book is the writing. As I was reading, I did not feel like the book flowed well together. During many parts of the story I felt like the text was very choppy and bounced from one topic to the next. A second reason why I like the book is the illustrations. Each illustration was full of action and color which show more can be good for young children. show less