The once abandoned cats, Julie and Rosetta, now living in luxury with their English mother and their Italian father, who is an artist, have become famous. Their portraits hang in a Florence gallery and they are much sort after because they can speak human words both in Italian and English. Needing a rest, they all go to the country for rest. But then along comes Spiritino, a comical rogue of a tomcat, who introduces the girls to wine, stealing cakes, and wild dancing in the cellar . . .
Excerpt
Now Roberto, the photographer's son, was looking after Rosetta for he morning. He had been given strict instructions not to let her out of the kitchen. "She has been very naughty indeed," the mamma had said. "She tried to destroy the babbo's painting because Julie was in it."
"It is not true!" Rosetta had said in English, and then again loudly in Italian. "Non è vero!"
"Why do her whiskers move when she speaks?" Roberto asked in English, for he was learning the language from the English mamma.
"Because she's angry," the mamma replied. "Thank goodness the babbo rescued the painting in time. Now do you understand, Rosetta, you're to stay here and not go out and play."
Rosetta trotted into the kitchen. Pretend not to hear, she thought. She had not meant to destroy all the painting - only the part Julie was in. Not easy having an English mamma who did not understand and made up stupid songs - she might make up another in a minute: 'Rosetta is a bad bad cat, there is no doubt of that,' - such silly human words...
Professional Reviews
If Real Cats Culd Talk
They would speak like Julie, Rosetta and Spiritino. Each shows his or her true character, shy, arrogant or rascally. All contribute to the mayhem, and all prove that people can't ever own cats. Delightful story and illustrations.
Tuscan Cats Again
'Tuscan Cats get into Mischief' is the continuing saga from Laura Graham an author who has a joyous understanding between cats and their humans. Julie and Rosetta still have a love hate relationship and a problem with the clashing cultures of English and Italian, particularly when it comes to amore. This comes to the fore when Spiritino enters their lives, the farm cat next door to their holiday residence who leads them into a bit of do over wine, fairy cakes and sardines.
Highly recommended.
Further Adventures of the Tuscan Cats.
Eagerly awaited by me and my 8 year old granddaughter is Laura Graham's further adventures of the Tuscan speaking cats! Now Spiritino enters the story and romance comes with him.Rosalbo Zacchei's charming illustrations enhance the characters of the cats, although they appear almost human with their linguistic skills. Laura takes one into magical world - but beware - once you start reading this book you'll find it impossible to put down!
Busy Body provides a unique way of ministering to Christian youths. It introduces young readers to Christian values and principles and teaches them the significance of these standards and beliefs.
If ever there was a time for a Children's Ministry
Donkey-Donk has moved to a new farm, and as much as she tries, she just can't find a job she can do. Includes over 20 adorable photos of Donk trying her best...
Pengey Penguin takes us on a memorable journey where an unlikely character, twists of fate, and minor miracles help him and his rag-tag Army of little fury animals save Christmas.325 page read to me 4-8 - 9 up reads very quickly.
