Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book through Edelweiss. ( )

What a great story to help us remember the message of never giving up! It is funny, entertaining, and teachers us a little bit about the Sumo culture from Japan. I love how it breaks down the words and gives the meanings right on the pages. Yay for Sumo Kitty! ( )

unlikely topic for picture book; hilarious story, with lots of serious Japanese/sumo terms. ( )

A really cute and funny story of a stray cat that endears itself to a sumo wrestler and learns life lessons in the process. I enjoyed how Japanese proverbs were included, as well as vocabulary surrounding sumo wrestling with pronunciation guides. The illustrations were wonderfully done. ( )

I love everything about this book. It can be used on so many levels! The smallest readers would like the story about the skinny kitty who comes to live with the Sumo wrestlers, gentlemen of strength and honor. Older students could get into the preparation and lifestyle these huge athletes go through. They can also learn some of the Japanese words in the story. I also appreciate the thick paper pages, the moral of the story, and the beautiful illustrations! The story begins with four " wise and beautiful sayings". Simply inspiring! ( )