Ruby and the Naughty Cats by Jane Hissey (Salariya Publishing)

Jane Hissey's books are just the ticket as the weather begins to turn sharp, and cuddling up in the warm is the order of the day. We absolutely love her 'toy' stories, and this is a brilliant book destined to become an instant classic.

In fact, Charlotte has declared this her favourite "Old Bear" book yet (though bear isn't the central character here). It could have a lot to do with the fact that it's all about Ruby Mouse (Charlotte's favourite character in these stories) and some of the naughtiest kitties you'll ever meet.

Ruby and her friends want to play and have fun, but the five naughty cats have other ideas. Whereas Ruby, Blue and Blanket are good at playing nicely, the three cats are full of energy and enthusiasm - a little too much enthusiasm - and can't quite behave themselves.

My nan had a phrase for the sort of chaos these kitties create, bless her. She always used to look in at my room when visiting, solemnly declaring that it looked like "The Wreck of the Hesperus" (I never did discover what ship the Hesperus was, and why it wrecked so spectacularly) - but back on track, those kitties are messy, noisy and have no idea how to play nicely at all!

Ruby and the others soon get fed up with the kitties, and decide to hide out in Ruby's dollhouse for a little peace and quiet, but the cats have other ideas and paint the outside! Naughty moggies!

Can Ruby and her friends find a way to tame those wild cats?

We could spend all day staring at Jane's gorgeous illustrations (I love how Charlotte described them as "looking just like real toys!" then discovering the photo of Jane cuddling them tucked inside the book covers). Everyone will also develop a certain fondness for at least one of the kitties. I loved the mischievous ginger moggy while Charlotte favoured the rather sweet looking (but is actually anything but) kitten in a lovely dress.

A great little story, Jane is a supreme talent indeed.

Charlotte's best bit: The final spread of the book is SO CUTE! She loved it.

Daddy's Favourite bit: Jaunty writing, peerless illustrations and a thoroughly entertaining little tale, huge love for this and you'll love it too if you love Old Bear and his friends.

(Kindly sent to us for review by Salariya Publishing)