Scarface Claw

Who can resist Scarface Claw, with his torn ear, his mean expression and his reputation as ‘the toughest tom in town’? Dodd’s formula – strongly alliterative verse with robust language and a punchy rhythm, combined with dramatic watercolour illustrations of a familiar cast of characters – has been a winner since the late 1980s.

In this new title, Scarface Claw, scared of nothing, gives himself a fright at the sight of his own reflection. Not strong on storyline, then, but the characteristic turning of the tables at the end keeps Scarface Claw firmly in his place, which is just where Dodd wants him.