Cats. Manga. Cats. Kawaii. Cats. Silliness. Cats. Warmth. Cats.
Sensing a theme?
Whether or not you are into graphic novels, comics, manga (Japanese cartoons in print form), or kawaii (culture of "cuteness" in Japan), all cat lovers can appreciate this series. I was first introduced to Sue & Tai-chan by my daughter, who happened upon the first book in the series at our local library. She shared bits and pieces of this charming work by Konami Kanata with me as she progressed through it herself, and we soon discovered that it was only the first of an entire series. After receiving books #1-4 for her birthday, we sped through them with joy and ease. (I personally have only read books #2, #3, and #4 in their entirety.)
Sue & Tai-chan are the titular feline characters in this collection of cat-based manga. Sue, an aging and dignified kitty, is eager to settle into her restful golden years with her person (Natsuki). One day, a friend asks Natsuki to care for his new kitten, Tai-chan (or Tai, as the suffix "chan" is a term of endearment). Tai-chan is everything we know and love about kittens: friendly, fearless, full of energy, loving, curious, insane, and painfully adorable. Suddenly, Sue's world is entirely different from what she'd been anticipating previously. Instead of naps punctuated only by food and bathroom breaks, she finds herself playing with, entertaining, and teaching Tai-chan about being a house cat. Using humor, subtlety, and feline antics familiar only to an animal lover, Kanata will steal your heart by way of these two lovable keets and all of their feline friends.
[Bonus: Kanata also weaves in nuggets of Japanese culture, making this a valuable learning experience for readers young and old. There are often explanations for traditions (think Lunar New Year customs in Japan) at the end of the book, making it educational, accessible, and fun!]
This series is an excellent "light read" and fits perfectly between heavier novels or works of non-fiction. They may be a great choice for kids to read on their own, but I would strongly recommend reading them alongside your child(ren); you won't want to miss out on the fun yourself! The short chapters and dialogue-based narrative make these easy reads perfect for a vacation or a boring-ass waiting room. You may only seem slightly crazy for laughing by yourself. >^-^<
