Scarface Claw, Hold Tight

It’s a peaceful morning as Scarface Claw, the formidable and fearsome feline, dozes contentedly in a sunlit spot. His tail is neatly curled around him, and his feet are tucked in comfortably. Suddenly, the tranquility is shattered. A loud engine whirrs to life, sending vibrations through the ground.

In an instant, the truck begins to move, and with it, Scarface Claw, who is now precariously perched on the roof. As the truck speeds down the driveway and onto the streets, Scarface holds on for dear life. His owner, Tom, is completely oblivious to the rooftop passenger, even as passers-by frantically try to alert him to the stowaway kitty.

Inspired by true stories of cat owners inadvertently driving off with their pets still on the roofs of their cars, this adventure will have readers on the edge of their seats. The narrative is filled with plenty of close calls and hilarious moments, ensuring that young readers are just as engrossed in the unfolding drama as the bystanders aiming to rescue poor Scarface Claw.

As always, Lynley Dodd’s charming illustrations bring the story to vivid life, perfectly capturing Scarface’s mixed expressions of anxiety and determination. The rhythmic and rhyming text makes it an engaging read-aloud, promising giggles and gasps with every turn of the page.

Scarface Claw, Hold Tight was recognised as one of NZ Listener’s 50 Best Books for Kids in 2017, further cementing its place as a treasured tale in contemporary children’s literature. An adventure not to be missed for fans and new readers alike.