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Ketzel, the Cat Who Composed    by Leslea Newman & Amy June Bates Amazon.com order for
Ketzel, the Cat Who Composed
by Leslea Newman
Order:  USA  Can
Candlewick, 2015 (2015)
Hardcover
* *   Reviewed by Bob Walch

Inspired by a true story, this picture book shares the story of a kitten that was adopted by composer Moshe Cotel and became the inspiration for some of his music. Although he isn't perhaps a familiar name when it comes to composers (Cotel retired from teaching and composing to become a rabbi), his claim to fame, such as it is, rests in his collaboration with Ketzel, his cat.

Ketzel’s pawing of the keyboard resulted in an 'exquisite atonal miniature' written by her owner. Piece for Piano: Four Paws was premiered in 1998 by a ten year old pianist. The short piece earned Ketzel a royalty check for $19.72 which was spent on cat food!

Feline fans and children who love kitties will find this picture book, with its endearing illustrations of Ketzel, an enjoyable read. Who realized cats were such multifaceted creatures?

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