Cat and Dog

This heartwarming story about an unlikely friendship starts with a set-up reminiscent of Owl Babies; a mother goes to find food for her three little ones, but takes too long to return. In Foreman’s story the action is developed  – the mother cat has been caught in a van that went to the harbour. A stray dog takes pity on the stranded kittens and keeps them safe till their mother’s return. When the cat describes the beautiful seashore  she had seen on her detour, the animals decide to return together and explore.

Michael Foreman’s gentle tale of animal friendship could be read as a story showing the evolution of the kinds of family structure that exist in the current climate – the cats welcome the dog into their unit for the good of the family, who are stronger together despite their differences. On the other hand it’s simply a gentle story about cats and a dog enjoying the beauty in the world around. As always Foreman’s prose is clear and his paintings recognisable in their cool colours and warm tradition.