Ava and Taco Cat (Ava and Pip, 2)

This is a fun, clever book about a girl obsessed with palindromes and other literary devices. (Note: TACO CAT is spelled the same backward and forward). It reminded me of the feelings I had reading The Phantom Tollbooth as a kid, expect it's grounded in reality instead of fantasy. Ava and her family adopt an abandoned cat soon called Taco Cat. Unfortunately, though Ava wants to shower him with affection, he's skittish - she has to learn to be patient while he slowly warms to his new home. Meanwhile, her BFF is hanging out with a new girl and things are tricky at school. Also, Ava and her sister, an artist, are writing and illustrating a picture book that might be reviewed by a real-life author. It's all happening! Mayhem ensues, but the wonderful heart and witty writing ensure a satisfying ending. Excellent lower MG book. Fans of animal rescue will also love this. I was also happy to learn you can't hum and hold your nose at the same time. "I started thinking about words on screens versus words in books. Like, with texting or Facebook, you can read what people are thinking right that very second. But with books, you can read what people took ages to think about. Some authors take years and years to write a book that a reader can gobble up in hours, which, for the reader, is a very good deal." "It was work. But it was fun work (which seems like an oxymoron but might not be)."

engaging story

A funny and touching story for your 4th- 6th grader. Eleven-year-old Ava deals with the ups and downs of friendship, family and wanting a pet by writing in her diary. Because the whole book is written as a series of short diary entries, it will appeal to reluctant readers and bookworms alike. It has a great plot with some surprising twists. And there's more-- Ava and her family are "word nerds" and their delight in the English language comes through on every page. After reading Ava and Taco Cat, kids will be inspired to become writers themselves!

It's purrfect for all ages, and it can encourage kids to write diaries. Carol Weston's books are always very detailed. I already read this book lots of times, and it always makes me happy for Ava and Pip for keeping Taco. Ava's mom works at a vet's office, one day there's an injured cat. Ava tries hard to keep the cat, and named it taco. At first her mom doesn't like the cat, but as time passes, she starts to like Taco too. I bought the first book too, they are my favorite books, I hope Carol Weston write more good books. I am also surprised by the quality, the book is hard covered, and the pages are very smooth.

What a delight! "Ava and Taco Cat" sings off the page. It's rare that a book written for young readers gives so much pleasure to an adult - but "Ava and Taco Cat" does. If you haven't read "Ava and Pip" - read that one too! Weston writes beautifully about this quirky family and lovingly invites you into their home.

Cute book. I bought it for my 6 year old. There are a few things that are a little over her head and maybe more suited for 10+ but overall a fun book.

My daughter read the first book ‘Ava and Pip’ and loved it! It is a smart, witty story told in a Diary format and is perfect for an elementary age kid. She couldn’t wait to receive the second one ‘Ava and Taco Cat’ and breezed right through the story. About to order the third!

My daughter is very picky about books and she loves this one. Also, short chapters like a diary that makes it really easy to read.

This was my daughter’s favourite book. From the first book, she loved the palindromes. Thank you for sharing this book with children all over the world.🌍