The Katz is out of the bag!! Tomorrow’s the book birthday of my latest picture book, OFFICER KATZ & HOUNDINI: A TALE OF TWO TAILS, illustrated by Danny Chatzikonstantinou. Aladdin gets extra points for fitting two very long surnames on its spine!
Since the blog tour’s kicking off right here at Writing for Kids (While Raising Them), I thought I’d celebrate its release with a sneak peek at some of my favorite images from the book.
There are two kinds of magic in the book. The first is a kind of practical magic. Officer Katz is an inventor. This is his most prized and pawsome invention, the Katzapult:
Houndini’s magic is more elusive. Like his namesake, Houdini, he’s an escape artiste, practiced in the art of disappearance. I love his exuberance as he bursts out of a box here:
Officer Katz and Houndini have sidekicks, Deputy Catbird and Squirrel.
And I absolutely adore the hilarious endpapers:
Which place would you like to visit, New Pork, or perhaps Mane?
Leave a comment, and you will be eligible for one of THREE prizes:
- A query pass from agent extraordinaire, Ammi-Joan Paquette of Erin Murphy Literary (either a query plus a whole PB manuscript or a query plus first five novel pages).
- A picture book critique from Maria—either fiction or nonfiction.
- Your own copy of OFFICER KATZ & HOUNDINI (US residents only—sorry!).
Thanks again for having me here, Tara! It was pawsitively purrfect!
The prizes will be given away in early November.
OFFICER KATZ & HOUNDINI BLOG TOUR! BOOK GIVEAWAYS EVERY DAY!
Tuesday, Oct. 18th: Librarian’s Quest
Wednesday, Oct. 19th: Bildebok
Thursday, Oct. 20th: Mamabelly’s Lunches with Love
Friday, Oct. 21st: Pragmaticmom + THREE book giveaway
Monday, Oct. 24th: Homemade City
Tuesday, Oct. 25th: ReFoReMo THINK QUICK Interview with Carrie Charley Brown
346 comments
Comments feed for this article
October 17, 2016 at 10:05 am
supermario6
This looks wonderful!
October 17, 2016 at 1:13 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:07 am
Beth
What excellent play with language! Can’t wait to get my paws on the whole book. Thanks for sharing!
October 17, 2016 at 1:14 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Beth 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:07 am
Susie Sawyer
Totally magical Maria! Congratulations! Thank you for a great post and as always thank YOU Tara! 😊
October 17, 2016 at 1:14 pm
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Susie 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:10 am
Lynne Marie
LOVE this idea. Can’t wait to get a copy of this book! Thanks Maria and Tara!
October 17, 2016 at 1:14 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you for commenting, Lynne Marie 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:12 am
Lotus Ivak
Congratulations Maria! This is wonderful news. And thank you Tara for everything you do! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:15 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Lotus :). Love your name by the way 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:14 am
julielacombeauthor
Great interview! Can’t wait to pick up Officer Katz & Houdini. You’d find me in Dogtown with my 2 rescue havanese!
October 17, 2016 at 1:15 pm
mariagianferrari
Rescues are the best, Julie :). My Becca’s a rescue mutt too!
October 17, 2016 at 10:18 am
Michele Blood
Holy cannoli! Great book AND great prizes. This is why I ❤ Tara's blog!
October 17, 2016 at 1:15 pm
mariagianferrari
I ❤ Tara's blog too, Michele!!
October 17, 2016 at 10:18 am
Natasha Wing
Super cute illustrations!
October 17, 2016 at 1:16 pm
mariagianferrari
They’re fun & zany 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:19 am
jodelle55
This book looks really clever. I can’t wait to read it.
October 17, 2016 at 1:16 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Jodelle 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:19 am
Sadee Schilling
What a cute book! Thanks for the sneak peek, Tara. Can’t wait to read the whole thing!
October 17, 2016 at 1:16 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Sadee 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:19 am
idzalg
I would like to visit Dogtown with my chocolate lab. Happy book birthday, Maria & Danny! Can’t wait to read this fun book. Thanks Tara!
October 17, 2016 at 1:17 pm
mariagianferrari
Love labs!!
October 17, 2016 at 10:21 am
Kris
I love this book’s humor! It cracked me up. Definitely adding it to my collection. Thanks Tara! Thanks Maria!
October 17, 2016 at 1:17 pm
mariagianferrari
Pawsome!! Thanks, Kris 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:21 am
yangmommy
This looks so cute! Looking forward to reading it 🙂 I especially love the end pages with “New Pork” and “West Cheddar” Congrats on the debut!
October 17, 2016 at 1:18 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, yangmommy. I get a kick out of New Pork 😉
October 17, 2016 at 10:27 am
Melissa Stoller
Congratulations! I love all the wordplay and the illustrations are beautiful. I really look forward to reading this book.
October 17, 2016 at 1:18 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks for saying so, Melissa!!
October 17, 2016 at 10:27 am
Ellen Schofield
My rescue tuxedo, Annabelle C. (for “Cat,” obviously!) Schofield, would like to meet Officer Katz!
Thank you, Tara and Maria!
Ellen Schofield
October 17, 2016 at 1:18 pm
mariagianferrari
Kitty City here you come, Ellen 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:29 am
Mary Warth
Thanks Maria! I love the word play and vibrant illustrations.
Congratulations!
October 17, 2016 at 1:19 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks for commenting, Mary 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:31 am
authordebradaugherty
Congratulations on your newest release. I love the play on words and the illustrations are super.
October 17, 2016 at 1:19 pm
mariagianferrari
Merci, Debra 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:38 am
Victoria Wirkkala
How cute! I love that the sidekicks are animals that would normally be enemies of the cat and dog. So imaginative.
Happy Book Birthday!!
October 17, 2016 at 1:19 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Victoria 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:39 am
Heather
What a fun idea! Thanks for sharing, Maria and Tara.
October 17, 2016 at 1:20 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:40 am
setwiggs
What a fun book. my favorite is the pawparatzi! are we starting the lead up to PiBold Mo . I’m excited and looking forward to it!
October 17, 2016 at 1:20 pm
mariagianferrari
I like the paw-parazzi too 😉
October 17, 2016 at 10:41 am
Jennifer
Congratulations! West Cheddar looks like the place I’d want to visit!
October 17, 2016 at 10:42 am
Jennifer Laughlin
Congratulations! I think West Cheddar looks like the place for me!
October 17, 2016 at 1:21 pm
mariagianferrari
Two squeaks for West Cheddar 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:43 am
kirsticall
I can’t wait to read this, Maria!
October 17, 2016 at 1:21 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Kirsti 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:45 am
JEN
Which place would I visit? I think Mane. Those horses look majestic – in a cute way!
October 17, 2016 at 1:21 pm
mariagianferrari
I love the Mane horses too, Jen 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:49 am
Angie
What a clever book! I think I would like to visit Mane, because I love horses! Congrats and the adorable book!
October 17, 2016 at 1:21 pm
mariagianferrari
Neigh!! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 10:51 am
booksbeforebandaids
This looks so great. My son says he wants to visit Mane!
October 17, 2016 at 1:22 pm
mariagianferrari
Mane seems the popular destination 😉
October 17, 2016 at 11:01 am
Tim Canny
Hmmm, I’m interested to see what the relationship is between these two. The fact that Officer Katz wants to launch Houndini into the air makes me think it might be somewhat strained. Also, I would love to visit West Cheddar, especially if it was right next to Port Wine. 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:22 pm
mariagianferrari
Good idea!!
October 17, 2016 at 11:02 am
Dana Wu
A favorite “officer buckle” is getting a challenge with this one.. love the premise and the humor.
October 17, 2016 at 1:22 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Dana 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:03 am
Kristi Veitenheimer
Congratulations on your book birthday! I’ll visit Mane, please!
October 17, 2016 at 1:23 pm
mariagianferrari
I went to Maine, I mean “Mane” this summer, Kristi 😉
October 17, 2016 at 11:07 am
Emmie R Werner
HAPPP[Y BOOK BIRTHDAY. My grandson would absolutely love the humor in this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 17, 2016 at 1:23 pm
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Emmie 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:08 am
kathalsey
What a pawsome book, Maria! Wiley Corgi would like to visit New Pork, ‘cuz if we can make it there, we’ll make it anywhere! Congrats on another fabulous book!
October 17, 2016 at 1:24 pm
mariagianferrari
New Pork, New PORK–it’s a helluva town. I’m sure Wiley will love it there, Kathy 😉
October 17, 2016 at 11:08 am
Sue Heavenrich
OOH – I LOVE endpapers that are part of the story! This one looks so Cute! and as a photo-journalist, I totally identify with the paw-parazzi.
October 17, 2016 at 1:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you so much, Sue!! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:09 am
lindamartinandersen
Nutbury sounds like a place where lots of things are being buried and dug up. Fun to watch! Love this creative book!
October 17, 2016 at 1:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Linda 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:10 am
Jennifer
Tara, your blogs always give me inspiration! Love this new book and can’t wait to read it. Congratulations Maria!
October 17, 2016 at 1:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Jennifer 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:12 am
lindamartinandersen
Reblogged this on A Writer's Playground and commented:
This book sounds hard to resist if you’re a cat or dog person or love magic. That’s a big audience, I would think.
October 17, 2016 at 1:26 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks so much for doing that, Linda!! I really appreciate it (and I can’t help but smile at your own magical hat!!)
October 17, 2016 at 11:14 am
angkunkel
I love the action of bursting out of cardboard boxes! Best of luck with your new release!
October 17, 2016 at 1:27 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks so much, Angela 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:16 am
Gabi Snyder
Congratulations, Maria! This book looks like a ton of fun and the illustrations are adorable.
October 17, 2016 at 1:27 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Gabi 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:18 am
rgstones
I just checked my library and am thrilled to see they’ve already ordered four copies. I’m first in line. 🙂 Can’t wait to read it.
October 17, 2016 at 1:27 pm
mariagianferrari
Oh, that’s wonderful to know–thanks, rg :)!
October 17, 2016 at 11:19 am
Red said what?
Adorable! Congratulations!
October 17, 2016 at 1:27 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks!!
October 17, 2016 at 11:26 am
Lisa R
I LOVE KATZ AND HOUNDINI! I can’t wait to hold a copy in my hands. . .so cute and fun!
October 17, 2016 at 1:28 pm
mariagianferrari
❤ ❤
October 17, 2016 at 11:31 am
Nicole
This book looks fantastic. I love the illustrations!
October 17, 2016 at 1:28 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks for commenting, Nicole 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:35 am
Kathy Doherty
This picture book looks delightful! Who could resist such a cute pair!
October 17, 2016 at 1:28 pm
mariagianferrari
:)–thanks, Kathy!
October 17, 2016 at 11:35 am
Cassandra Federman
Congrats! The book looks hilarious and adorable.
October 17, 2016 at 1:29 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you!
October 17, 2016 at 11:37 am
Kyle McBride
I love all the little jokes. Can’t wait to see it.
October 17, 2016 at 1:29 pm
mariagianferrari
I hope you get a few laughs, Kyle 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:41 am
polly renner
Another Book Birthday to celebrate…Cannot wait to read it:> Yippee!
October 17, 2016 at 1:29 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Polly!
October 17, 2016 at 11:48 am
deborahholtwilliams
What a fun book! I live in western ColoRAD DOG, and I’d take a trip on the train to DenFURR.to meet these characters!
October 17, 2016 at 1:30 pm
mariagianferrari
That would be pawsitively pawsome, Deborah!!
October 17, 2016 at 11:49 am
Mary Jo Wagner
Sounds Purrrr-fect!
October 17, 2016 at 1:30 pm
mariagianferrari
Many meows, Mary Jo!
October 17, 2016 at 11:53 am
jennienzor
This looks hilarious and fun. Can’t wait to read! I absolutely adore the end paper map as well. Congrats, Maria!
October 17, 2016 at 1:30 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Jennie 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:57 am
Ann Kelley
I’d like to visit Dogtown! What a fun book! Can’t wait to read it!
October 17, 2016 at 1:31 pm
mariagianferrari
Woof!! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:58 am
Anthony Piraino
Congrats – this looks really cute!
October 17, 2016 at 1:31 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:59 am
Jonathan Schkade
Fabulous fun! Layers of humor, quirky characters, and magic–what more could I want?
October 17, 2016 at 1:31 pm
mariagianferrari
Fan of quirky :)–thanks, Jonathan!
October 17, 2016 at 12:11 pm
Maegan
What a wonderfully creative adventure; looking forward to reading it! The wordplay is so fun and energetic. Congratulations!
October 17, 2016 at 1:32 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Maegan!
October 17, 2016 at 12:13 pm
Elizabeth Metz
Congratulations, Maria! This book looks delightful. I already live in a city known to some as Porkopolis, so I think I’d give New Pork a try. 😉
October 17, 2016 at 1:32 pm
mariagianferrari
Porkopolis–love it, Elizabeth!! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 12:14 pm
Kate Harold
Looks like a fun book – looking forward to reading it! Happy Book Birthday!
October 17, 2016 at 1:32 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 12:19 pm
Linda Staszak
I can’t wait to read this book. I know the boys I read to daily are going to love it, and me too! It’s going to be a fun book to read over and over. Thanks so much!
October 17, 2016 at 1:33 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Linda 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 12:20 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Sounds fun! I know a lot of doggies that could be named Houdini. …including yours truly! Disappearing is my hobby.
Love and licks,
Cupcake
October 17, 2016 at 1:33 pm
mariagianferrari
Cupcake–the escape artiste–love it, Genevieve!!
October 17, 2016 at 12:29 pm
Ink Bottle Studio
I love the play on words (Houndini!) and I love that Katz is an inventor! Awesome elements!
October 17, 2016 at 1:33 pm
mariagianferrari
Merci!!
October 17, 2016 at 12:29 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks so much for kicking off the Katz & Houndini blog tour, Tara 🙂
You are pawsome ❤ <3!!
October 17, 2016 at 12:33 pm
Charlotte Dixon
Appaws, appaws for OFFICER KATZ AND HOUNDINI’S book birthday! Looking forward to reading and sharing the fun and humor 🙂 Congrats, Maria!
October 17, 2016 at 1:34 pm
mariagianferrari
Very punny!! Thanks, Charlotte 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 12:37 pm
paulinetso
What a fun book! Seems very punny indeed – can’t wait to read it! Congrats!
October 17, 2016 at 1:34 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Pauline!!
October 17, 2016 at 12:40 pm
Lauri Fortino
Looking forward to reading it! Congratulations!
October 17, 2016 at 1:34 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 12:41 pm
taracreel
How cute! New Pork! I love this! Thanks for the giveaway as well!
October 17, 2016 at 1:35 pm
mariagianferrari
I ❤ New PORK 😉
October 17, 2016 at 12:43 pm
Gregory E Bray
I’d like to go to West Cheddar. Anywhere there is cheese is the place for me. Great article. Congratulations on the book.
October 17, 2016 at 1:35 pm
mariagianferrari
Cheesaholic here too, Gregory! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 12:47 pm
gail maki wilson
Hands down West cheddar. Oh, the cheese you’d find! Love those end papers.
October 17, 2016 at 1:35 pm
mariagianferrari
Two cheesaholics in a row ;)!!
October 17, 2016 at 12:53 pm
Juliana Lee
Catz and Dogz have their own unique magic. Can’t wait to see what magic Officer Katz and Houndini preform!
October 17, 2016 at 1:36 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Juliana!! ❤
October 17, 2016 at 12:55 pm
Lindsay Hanson Metcalf
Wonderful prizes, and this looks like a must-read book. Thank you for sharing!
October 17, 2016 at 1:36 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank YOU for commenting, Lindsay!
October 17, 2016 at 12:58 pm
Cathy Ogren
This looks like such a fun book – endpapers and all!
October 17, 2016 at 12:59 pm
Cathy Ogren
This looks like such a fun book – endpapers and all!
October 17, 2016 at 1:36 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Cathy!
October 17, 2016 at 12:59 pm
Yvonne K
Congrats on the book release! Love the sneak pics!
October 17, 2016 at 1:37 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Yvonne!
October 17, 2016 at 1:07 pm
Nancy Furstinger
Congrats–my pooches and I are ready to trek up to Mane…and can’t wait to read your latest!
October 17, 2016 at 1:37 pm
mariagianferrari
Maine/Mane is pawsitively dog friendly, Nancy 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:08 pm
Erin Nowak
Such a neat concept! Love the colorful illustrations that are endearing without being overly cute. What a fun book (and great giveaways!).
October 17, 2016 at 1:38 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Erin!
October 17, 2016 at 1:17 pm
Shari Schwarz
Congratulations, Maria! Thanks for the giveaways.
October 17, 2016 at 1:17 pm
Audrey Hackett
Definitely West Cheddar – because I love cheese! I also love the clever play on words in this book: “Houndini” and “paw-parazzi”. The illustrations are catastic.
October 17, 2016 at 1:38 pm
mariagianferrari
Cat-tastic–cute!! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:29 pm
Jill
New Pork, definitely! This looks amazing and I can’t wait to read it to my littles!
October 17, 2016 at 1:32 pm
Jim Chaize
Looks like a fun read. Love clever word play. Congrats Maria. Our brains might work the same … I have a Flydini and Puparazzi in a couple of my stories.
October 17, 2016 at 1:38 pm
mariagianferrari
Flydini–love it, Jim!! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:35 pm
darlene koppel
Such adorable characters. I’ll go for West Cheddar – Love cheese.
October 17, 2016 at 1:39 pm
mariagianferrari
Lots of cheese fans here, Darlene :)!
October 17, 2016 at 1:36 pm
mona861
It’s New Pork for me…I live in Mane-whoops, Maine!!!
Sounds like a book full of fun and exciting adventure!!!
October 17, 2016 at 1:37 pm
Kelly Rice Schmitt (@ricek0)
I love this idea! The wordplay is adorable, and I can’t wait to read the whole thing and see what sort of trouble this pair gets into! I think I would most like to visit New Pork and get some tasty treats there. Best of luck and thanks for sharing!
October 17, 2016 at 1:39 pm
mariagianferrari
Love Maine (& Mane), Mona 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:41 pm
janiswarren
Congratulations, Maria and your beautiful Becca too, who looks so proud! I know she must be a great inspiration and studio buddy! 🙂 Thank you, Maria and Tara for sharing your work, advice and wonderful info all about the process of creating picture books – it’s great support! Janis Warren
October 17, 2016 at 1:45 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Janis!! i do love my girl–Becca is the best, most pawsome dog in the universe ;).
October 17, 2016 at 1:45 pm
Judy Sobanski
I love the many play on words you create and your fun characters! Can’t wait to read it!!
October 17, 2016 at 1:46 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Judy!
October 17, 2016 at 1:46 pm
Margaret Greanias
Really adorable. I love the place names. Mane, I think would be fun. I’m looking forward to reading it!
October 17, 2016 at 1:48 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks for commenting, Margaret 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:48 pm
Mary Worley
Such a fun, clever idea. I’m partial to endpapers that are maps/trails. I’d visit Nutbury.
October 17, 2016 at 2:00 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Mary 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:53 pm
David McMullin
This book looks fun and different and interesting. I’m adding it to the list right now.
October 17, 2016 at 2:01 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 1:54 pm
Caren Cantrell
I’m all about the cheese so West Cheddar would be my pick. I love the way you’ve changed common words to animals like paw-parrazi. What an inspiration. Good luck with the book!
October 17, 2016 at 2:01 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Caren!
October 17, 2016 at 1:57 pm
katmaz2012
Thank you for the info. I just added this title to my library list.
October 17, 2016 at 2:01 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks!!
October 17, 2016 at 2:04 pm
Kelly Conroy
Animals, science, and magic! How fun. Congratulations!
October 17, 2016 at 2:05 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 2:10 pm
hmmmmm
Congrats Maria — it looks fantastic!
October 17, 2016 at 2:10 pm
Valarie Giogas
I’m so happy for you, Maria. Can’t wait to get my paws on this one, too.
October 17, 2016 at 2:20 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Val!! ❤
October 17, 2016 at 2:11 pm
Mary Horrocks
West Cheddar sounds like my corner of the sky, truly. Can’t wait to read this. And that is one beautiful pup in the author pic!
October 17, 2016 at 2:20 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Mary–that’s my girl, Becca :).
October 17, 2016 at 2:12 pm
mariagianferrari
Cool name & thank you!! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 2:13 pm
meridthgimbel
This looks hilariously adorable! Thanks for the post!
October 17, 2016 at 2:14 pm
Heather Elizabeth
Looks like fun! Love the endpapers
October 17, 2016 at 2:16 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Heather!
October 17, 2016 at 2:15 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Meridth :).
October 17, 2016 at 2:22 pm
rubineleanor
Wonderful to see the illustrations and to know “Katz” has its debut tomorrow.
We are celebrating with you!!!
October 17, 2016 at 2:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks so much, Elly!! ❤ ❤
October 17, 2016 at 2:26 pm
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Love the sneak peek of your images
October 17, 2016 at 2:28 pm
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Carolyn!
October 17, 2016 at 2:30 pm
Susan Niemann
This would be a great book to use in the classroom!
October 17, 2016 at 3:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Susan!
October 17, 2016 at 2:32 pm
Rosi Hollinbeck
What a perfectly adorable book! Thanks for telling me about it and for the great giveaway.
October 17, 2016 at 3:25 pm
mariagianferrari
You’re welcome, Rosi! Thank YOU for commenting 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 2:35 pm
Mark Bentz
I love the clever title, and what a beautiful dog you have.
Love the illustrations too. Thank you.
October 17, 2016 at 3:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Mark! That’s my girl, Becca 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 2:41 pm
Laura K Zimmermann
So cute…congrats!
October 17, 2016 at 3:26 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Laura!
October 17, 2016 at 2:54 pm
ManjuBeth
Maria, I’m amazed at the broad range of your PB concepts. Cheers to another successful book!
October 17, 2016 at 3:27 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you so much, Manju!!:)
October 17, 2016 at 3:00 pm
Kelly Barina
Thanks for sharing! It looks great! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 3:34 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 3:02 pm
slowsly
Love the story idea and the characters. Looking forward to reading the book.
October 17, 2016 at 3:36 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 17, 2016 at 3:15 pm
Zainab
This book looks like it was written about my kids. I can’t wait to read it! I love the illustrations and end pages.
Zainab
October 17, 2016 at 3:36 pm
mariagianferrari
About your kids–pray tell?!
October 17, 2016 at 3:25 pm
Darshana
Thanks for the sneak peak Maria! My cat loving daughter is going to love this. Congrats!
October 17, 2016 at 3:36 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Darshana ;)!
October 17, 2016 at 3:28 pm
Megan Taraszkiewicz
What a fun story! Can’t wait to check it out.
October 17, 2016 at 3:37 pm
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Megan!
October 17, 2016 at 3:31 pm
LovableLobo
What magical word play, Maria! I want to visit all the places, not just one. They sound so fun. Congrats!
October 17, 2016 at 3:40 pm
mariagianferrari
Lobo! How about Wolfshire 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 3:42 pm
Carole Calladine
Love the title and humor in this picture book. Thanks for sharing. I’d like to go to New Pork.
October 17, 2016 at 3:50 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Carole!
October 17, 2016 at 3:51 pm
Kelly Vavala
This looks absolutely adorable and humorous! Thank you so much for sharing and I wish you much success!! I just love the play with words!!
October 17, 2016 at 3:55 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you so much, Kelly!
October 17, 2016 at 3:56 pm
Kelly
Oh and by the way I’d like to visit everywhere you mentioned!!
October 17, 2016 at 3:53 pm
Laurie L. Warchol
Can’t wait to get my copy! Such a fun book, Maria. Congrats!
October 17, 2016 at 3:55 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Laurie! I’m guessing you’d choose Mane 😉
October 17, 2016 at 3:59 pm
Linda Hofke
Forget New Pork and Mane, West Cheddar is the place to be (but if you visit there remember to dress sharp!)
Oh, I love all the puns I see on the spreads and simply love the Scratch Pole Palace. You’ve got me sold on this already. It’s going on my Christmas wishlist this year.
October 17, 2016 at 5:30 pm
Linda Hofke
^not coming up with any puns but as far as the title goes you could use Katz & HUNDini
October 17, 2016 at 4:07 pm
mariagianferrari
Very punny, Linda ;)!! We’ll have to come up with some German ones!
October 17, 2016 at 4:10 pm
Beverly R. Marsh
Thanks for sharing a sneak peek of your new book, looks awesome!!
October 17, 2016 at 4:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Beverly!
October 17, 2016 at 4:15 pm
Lindsay Robinson
Love the word play! Looks like a book that adults will love to read and children will love to listen to!
October 17, 2016 at 4:25 pm
mariagianferrari
I hope so, Lindsay-thank you for commenting!
October 17, 2016 at 4:35 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Love the “Katz-apult!” Congratulations, Maria.
October 17, 2016 at 4:47 pm
mariagianferrari
😉
October 17, 2016 at 4:37 pm
katrinamoorebooks
This looks paw-sitively adorable and fun! Can’t wait to get my paws on it. Congrats, Maria!!
October 17, 2016 at 4:47 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks for your pawsitvity, Katrina!
October 17, 2016 at 4:38 pm
Sarah Skolfield
I want to visit West Cheddar! Looks like a fun book.
October 17, 2016 at 4:47 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Sarah!
October 17, 2016 at 4:56 pm
joanwatsonmartin
This sounds like the geatest picture book I’ve seen in ages, and the art work is unbelievable.
October 17, 2016 at 5:07 pm
mariagianferrari
You’re too kind, Joan–thanks!! 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 5:09 pm
Judy Bryan
How fun! Looking forward to getting my hands on a copy. Congratulations, Maria!!
October 17, 2016 at 5:10 pm
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Judy 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 5:11 pm
Carleen M. Tjader
Congratulations! Looks like an enjoyable read! And a clever plot idea.
October 17, 2016 at 5:53 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Carleen :)!
October 17, 2016 at 5:11 pm
Gail Hedrick
Congrats on this fun, wonderful use of words, neat story. Your charming concept, and the illustrator’s magic(sorry, couldn’t resist!) look to make this a book kids will enjoy page by page. And, again and again. Thanks to you and Tara for a really cool post.
October 17, 2016 at 5:54 pm
mariagianferrari
The illustrations are magical–thank you, Gail :)!
October 17, 2016 at 6:29 pm
eloisefreeman
Wild congratulations, Maria! LOVE LOVE LOVE the word play. What a delight for children.
October 18, 2016 at 10:21 am
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Eloise!
October 17, 2016 at 7:22 pm
Caroline
This looks hilarious! Love the wordplay and charming illustrations. And I’d totally go visit Mane. I hear they’re so neiiiigh-borly up there. (Oy. Sorry. Had to.)
October 18, 2016 at 10:22 am
mariagianferrari
Very punny, Caroline! 😉
October 17, 2016 at 7:27 pm
Shirley
Looks like a fun read. Kids should love it. Congratulations.
October 17, 2016 at 7:44 pm
Natalie Jager
Looks adorable!
October 18, 2016 at 10:22 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Natalie & Shirley 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 8:02 pm
Penny Morrison
It looks like a fun book. Conkatzulations Maria.
October 18, 2016 at 10:22 am
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Penny–the namesake of one of my books 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 8:17 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Congratulations, Maria. I love humor and I love wordplay so this tale of tails is a purrfect addition to my to-read list.
October 18, 2016 at 10:23 am
mariagianferrari
Thank you, LeeAnn!
October 17, 2016 at 8:32 pm
viviankirkfield
WHAT FUN! Congraulations, Maria! I absolutely LOVE the title. 😉
And asan old NYC girl, I’ll have to go for New Pork. 😉 😉
October 18, 2016 at 10:24 am
mariagianferrari
You can take the girl out of New Pork, but not New Pork out of the girl 😉
Thanks, Vivian ❤
October 17, 2016 at 8:40 pm
Maria Bostian
Can’t wait to read this hilarious book. Congratulations!
October 18, 2016 at 10:24 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks–from one Maria to another 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 8:45 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
I have GOT to go to West Cheddar! How cheesy! Congrats, Maria! You are totally on fire and awesome!
October 18, 2016 at 10:25 am
mariagianferrari
You’re the pawsome one, Carrie!! ❤
October 17, 2016 at 8:45 pm
Traci Bold
Maria, between you and Danny Chatzikonstantinou, this book is bound to be magical fun to read. Based on the end papers, I want to visit Mane! Looking forward to reading this. 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 10:25 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks so much, Traci!! ❤
October 17, 2016 at 9:30 pm
seschipper
Love, love, love the play on words!!!!
October 18, 2016 at 10:26 am
mariagianferrari
thank-thank-thank you!!
October 17, 2016 at 9:36 pm
Kristen Browning
Can’t wait to read this new book. Deputy Catbird is so cute! Congratulations on all of your success and thanks for offering the amazing prizes.
October 18, 2016 at 10:26 am
mariagianferrari
This bird nerd thinks so too! Thanks, Kristen!
October 17, 2016 at 11:02 pm
Michael Karg
Happy Birthday, Maria, Danny, Officer Katz, Houndini, et al! I’m looking forward to the hijinks.
October 18, 2016 at 10:26 am
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Michael!
October 17, 2016 at 11:21 pm
mariahmanley
Oh Mane of course! My favorite pun by far though…”paw-parazzi” haha! You obviously had so much fun writing this book. I’m excited to read it and get it in my library. 🙂 Bravo!
October 18, 2016 at 10:28 am
mariagianferrari
Not sure if you’re Maria H, or Mariah–but thank you for your pawsome comment 🙂
October 17, 2016 at 11:49 pm
ptnozell
Congratulations on the book birthday! Looks like you’ve created some memorable Characters. And I love the town names. My Toller & I especially love Dogtown.
October 18, 2016 at 10:28 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks!! As a dog lover, I’d love to visit Dogtown 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 12:03 am
Tammy Goen
All of the animal references and plays on words are very compelling. I hope we’ll be able to obtain a copy for the SMART reader program in our local school—the kids will love it!
October 18, 2016 at 10:29 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks so much, Tammy!
October 18, 2016 at 12:18 am
Lindsay Bonilla (@LindsayBonilla)
This book looks adorable! Congratulations!! 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 10:29 am
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 18, 2016 at 12:23 am
Heather Pierce Stigall
This looks really cute! And I love the word play. Congrats on your book birthday!
October 18, 2016 at 10:29 am
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Heather!
October 18, 2016 at 1:11 am
Kelly Farnsworth
Congratulations on your book release tomorrow. Best of success!
October 18, 2016 at 10:30 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks for stopping by, Kelly :)!
October 18, 2016 at 4:15 am
Tracey
Your book looks purr-fectly wonderful. I am ordering it for our library! Well done!
October 18, 2016 at 10:30 am
mariagianferrari
How purrfectly pawsome, Tracey–thank you so much!
October 18, 2016 at 7:29 am
picturebookplaydate
Love the look of this! Can’t wait to check it out.
October 18, 2016 at 10:30 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks!!
October 18, 2016 at 7:32 am
Norah
What a very clever book with lots of puns. Kids, and adults, will love it!
October 18, 2016 at 10:31 am
mariagianferrari
Thank you, Norah!
October 18, 2016 at 8:07 am
Nicole
Love the puns! Looks like a great read and I’m interested to see how you manage four characters.
October 18, 2016 at 10:31 am
mariagianferrari
I tried ;)!
October 18, 2016 at 8:30 am
htbeers
Oh my goodness. I would love to start out in Mane and have lunch in West Cheddar. What a great trip that would be! (Can’t wait to read this book to the little ones in my life. Will I be able to read it to them without busting a gut laughing?) Good luck to you, and thank you for sharing!
October 18, 2016 at 10:32 am
mariagianferrari
:)–thank you!!
October 18, 2016 at 8:30 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
What a cute cast of characters. I love Houdini’s face when he burst out of box. Good luck with your tour. Looking forward to reading your newest book.
October 18, 2016 at 10:32 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Kathy!
October 18, 2016 at 9:19 am
Nadine Gamble
So many great puns. Fantastic illustrations! Can’t wait to read the whole thing!
October 18, 2016 at 10:32 am
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Nadine!
October 18, 2016 at 9:32 am
lindaschueler
This book looks awesome! And I think I’d rather go to Mane.
October 18, 2016 at 10:33 am
mariagianferrari
Love Mane–those horses are so cute!!
October 18, 2016 at 10:05 am
Alex Borns-Weil
I love the word play. And kids will, too! Accessible and fun.
October 18, 2016 at 10:33 am
mariagianferrari
I hope so–thank you, Alex!
October 18, 2016 at 11:10 am
Micki Ginsberg
Maria, I can’t wait to buy your book. You are the Queen of Punny! Loved your “New Pork”!
October 18, 2016 at 5:24 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Micki!!
October 18, 2016 at 11:36 am
Lisa Riddiough
I absolutely love the word play! So fantastic – especially if you love dogs and cats and magic!!
October 18, 2016 at 5:24 pm
mariagianferrari
I love dogs, cats & magic 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 12:24 pm
lisakwillard
Congratulations, Maria! Love the characters! I want to read more. 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 12:28 pm
lisakwillard
Congratulations, Maria! Love Officer Katz and Houndini! 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 5:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Lisa 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 12:28 pm
Santiago Casares
Looks like so much fun, Maria! Officer Katz and Houdini seem to be adorable characters (and let’s not forget their sidekicks!)
October 18, 2016 at 5:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Here’s to sidekicks–thanks, Santiago 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 12:54 pm
danielle hammelef
Word-play is my favorite! So much fun. The end papers are hilarious. I have to read this for inspiration.
October 18, 2016 at 5:26 pm
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Danielle!
October 18, 2016 at 1:44 pm
laura516
This looks like a pun-filled romp! Congrats on your new book 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 5:26 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂
October 18, 2016 at 1:47 pm
Kirsten Bock
This looks adorable!
October 18, 2016 at 5:26 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Kirsten!
October 18, 2016 at 2:38 pm
marylouisealucurto
Another Case of Author/Illustrator Awesomeness!
October 18, 2016 at 5:27 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks for saying so, Mary Louise 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 4:35 pm
Sheri Rad
Congratulations on your success with a new book. The title is fun and stimulates my imagination on titles of my w.i.ps. Thanks
October 18, 2016 at 5:27 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Sheri!
October 18, 2016 at 4:55 pm
Cynthia R
What awesome titles for picture books! I look forward in reading this series. I am a dog owner and I love the name “Houndini.” It’s so perfect for a dog magician. The name of the cat officer, “Katz” is great as well! The pictures looks so entertaining also. Congratulations with your newest book and series. Thank you, Tara, too for your wonderful blog series that I always look forward in reading!
October 18, 2016 at 5:28 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks for the kind words, Cynthia! And I agree–Tara’s great, and so supportive of all of us in the kidlit world 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 5:01 pm
Kathryn Hagen
Happy Book Birthday Maria! I am thrilled about the book–my dear daughter-in-law is a Katz, my husband is an amateur magician, and both families have rescue dogs. And…I LOVE the characters and the imaginary world you have created. I would take a road trip starting at DogTown and ending at Mane, with a few extra days in New Pork. Can never have too much culture. Thanks for sharing!
October 18, 2016 at 5:28 pm
mariagianferrari
Wow–so many connections!! Thanks so much for sharing that, Kathryn! I hope you’ll enjoy the book, and your travels ;)!
October 18, 2016 at 7:00 pm
Gloria
Great characters with perfect names. I love the puns as well. I am sure this is a fund book.
October 19, 2016 at 8:42 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Gloria!!
October 18, 2016 at 8:23 pm
Phyllis Mignard
Love your characters!
October 19, 2016 at 8:42 am
mariagianferrari
Merci!!
October 18, 2016 at 9:08 pm
csheer18
A play-on-words-palooza! Sounds like a super fun story! Quirky characters!!!
October 19, 2016 at 8:42 am
mariagianferrari
Thank you!! I’m a fan of quirky!!
October 18, 2016 at 9:30 pm
ingridboydston
Will for puns! This looks like it looks and sounds amazing! Best wishes on a most successful blog tour!
October 19, 2016 at 8:43 am
mariagianferrari
Thank you so much, Ingrid 🙂
October 18, 2016 at 10:14 pm
Johnell DeWitt
West Cheddar for me. Thanks for the fun post.
October 19, 2016 at 8:43 am
mariagianferrari
Where it’s very cheesy ;).
October 19, 2016 at 7:09 am
tinamcho
Congratulations, Maria! I love all the humor on the pages shown!
October 19, 2016 at 8:43 am
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Tina :)!!
October 19, 2016 at 9:31 pm
helennhill
Sounds amazingly funny! Is there an award for best endpapers? I can’t wait to crack this book. I will chant to Navaratri and hope that the goddess is in good humor and plentiful. . . and that by her grace I will be granted one of these generous offerings. : )
October 21, 2016 at 9:49 am
mariagianferrari
Good luck, Helen!! The endpapers just crack me up :)!
October 19, 2016 at 10:09 pm
Cindy G.
Congratulations on your book birthday! Love the humor of the drawings – and your great writing! Hope you have fun celebrating.
October 21, 2016 at 9:49 am
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Cindy!
October 20, 2016 at 7:48 pm
Jody
I love the adorable sidekicks!
October 21, 2016 at 9:49 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Jody! I think they’re so cute too 🙂
October 21, 2016 at 12:37 pm
Sheri Dillard
LOVE this book! Thanks for the fun post, Maria and Tara!
October 21, 2016 at 1:25 pm
mariagianferrari
Sheri!!! ❤ ❤ ❤
October 21, 2016 at 2:03 pm
donnacangelosi
Such adorable and clever characters 🙂 Can’t wait to read this book! Congratulations, Maria! Thank you, Tara!
October 24, 2016 at 11:33 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Donna!
October 21, 2016 at 3:28 pm
waengel2002
What a fantastic offer. Can’t wait to read the book. I love humorous stories.
October 24, 2016 at 11:34 am
mariagianferrari
Good luck to you!!
October 21, 2016 at 10:32 pm
Sandy Perlic
What a delightfully clever story idea! I can’t wait to read it. Congratulations, Maria!
October 24, 2016 at 11:34 am
mariagianferrari
Many thanks, Sandy!! 🙂
October 22, 2016 at 11:27 am
Erin
Congratulations Maria! Fun book!
October 24, 2016 at 11:34 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Erin!
October 23, 2016 at 12:48 pm
aliciaminor
A cat and a hound together in a picture book is surely a riot! Play with words poses/promises nothing but success. Congratulations!
October 24, 2016 at 11:35 am
mariagianferrari
I’m a fan of wordplay too, Alicia. One of my favorites is Joan Holub’s Little Red Writing. Check it out if you haven’t already read it! So funny & clever!
October 23, 2016 at 9:17 pm
Michele Helsel
Congratulations! It looks adorable. I love the play with words!
October 24, 2016 at 11:35 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks for commenting, Michele!
October 24, 2016 at 10:46 am
Keila Dawson
Love the title. Congratulations! Can’t wait to read your new book.
October 24, 2016 at 11:36 am
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Keila! Love your name–so pretty :)!
October 24, 2016 at 5:54 pm
Lori talbot
This book looks terrific!!!!
October 25, 2016 at 6:01 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Lori!
October 25, 2016 at 12:27 pm
Dawn
This looks like a fun read!
October 25, 2016 at 6:01 pm
mariagianferrari
🙂