As someone who reads any book about cats that she comes across, whether fiction or non-fiction, for children or for adults, there are some that are extra special and Princess Puffybottom – And Darryl by Susin Nielsen is one of them. The story is about a cat who is Princess of her domain but is dismayed by the addition of a puppy to her kingdom. The puppy is messy and uncouth but worst of all he takes attention away from the Princess. Princess Puffybottom knows that this intruder needs to be banished somewhere far faraway. She tries everything to do that including hypnosis, trickery and sabotage but nothing works – it looks like Darryl is there to stay. Princess Puffybottom is sad but no one even notices – except Darryl. Slowly the Princess learns that Darryl has some redeeming features. He worships her, puts her on a pedestal (literally!) and even helps her get extra food. Princess Puffybottom comes to understand that there is room for both a Princess and a companion in her kingdom and life is good again. But what is that, that her human subjects are bringing home on the last page?

The illustrations are delightful and expressive, and the ending has a surprise that is hinted at subtly throughout the book. The fact that the family is non-traditional but is not made a big deal of makes the story contemporary and fresh. The book can be enjoyed by parents who are expecting a second child or who have kids who are experiencing sibling rivalry or just by people who love cats and dogs. I bought myself a copy recently and have already read it repeatedly and enjoyed it every time.