Hepcat

Rating:
Summary: Jazzy character, fun illustrations!
Review: Newspaper cartoonist Bramhall has cooked up a fun book out of a bit of jazzy dialog, lively illustrations, funny settings, and a pinch of problem-solving. Our protagonist, Hepcat, has a case of stage fright that makes him think he has no music in him and say "I lost my groove." As he searches for the self-confidence to finish his concert, he runs across a fun cast of characters (beatles who are Beetles, for one) who give him advice and/or cacophony that makes him realize that music IS everywhere and give him back his 'groove'. While many of the jokes may be out of kid's comprehension, adults who read this will get a kick out of his charicatures of famous personalities and they way he weaves their lyrics into the text. Kids will enjoy the action and expression Bramhall has packed into the hysterically funny illustrations. This would be a fun book to read aloud to any class, and would be especially appropriate for music/music appreciation.

Rating:
Summary: A Hip Cat Finds Early Rock and R&B Music Everywhere!
Review: Renowned newspaper cartoonist Bramwell's whimsical debut picture book features Hepcat -a nervous feline pianist costumed in cool sunglasses, beret, and a dark turtleneck who suffers from stage fright before his big concert. Having forgotten his music and lost "his groove," Hepcat takes the advice of a band of four beetles to "[t]ake a sad song and make it better" by simply cruising the "scene" because "[m]usic is EVERYwhere." Taking their advice, Hepcat eventually realizes that there is music everywhere - including traffic noises, whistling birds, a croaking frog, rumbling thunder, crashing lightening, pouring rain and gusting winds. A newly inspired Hepcat overcomes his stage fright and gives the best performance of his life. Amusing and enchanting black and white cartoons brightened with colorful, watercolor washes bring this tale to life. Children are unlikely to appreciate the references to rock and roll legends (i.e., the Beatles, Elvis, and Little Richard) or their classic songs (i.e., "Sad Song," "Hound Dog," "Good Golly Miss Molly," and "Yellow Submarine"). But, adult readers are sure to enjoy them and perhaps introduce these classics to a younger generation. Recommended for all children aged 4 to 8 and highly recommended for ones interested in music.