review by AES
age 6.5

In Buster Baxter Cat Saver, Buster saves a cat. He is famous and he gets a little to dramatic. I recommend this book to 6 year olds and of course grownups. P.s.,have a good time reading!

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Critique: Buster Baxter is a good example of a fantasy book because the characters are animals who take on life like characteristics and take part in human life. Like how Buster saves a cat by accident and becomes famous. Buster takes it too far and his friends set him up to show him that he is just like everyone else but he ends up saving them. These remind the reader that even though they are animals they have attitudes of people.
Theme: This has a strong theme of the importance of being humble because you see through Buster's behaviors after a cat fell into his arms that fame can change any person. Given the directed audience it is important for it to be clear and I can see the ease of students making connections in their own lives or other books.

Level: Primary and Intermediate

A good example of fantasy because animals are personified and situations are exaggerated beyond realistic levels. The characters have realistic personalities and difficulties, but the fact that they are rabbits and chimpanzees that act like humans, even owning pets that live normal lives. Also, when Buster gets recognized for a seemingly good deed, it is blown far out of proportion and it is difficult to believe it would be taken so far in real life. This fantasy still gives the reader benefits from this story, though, such as valuing friendship even when it is difficult, and not letting recognition go to one's head. The plot of this story flows nicely and is easy to follow, involving a discussion Arthur and Buster have over ice cream regarding their goals of being brave. Then, Buster gets his chance with a cat stuck in a tree, but freezes, and luckily the cat fell into his arms. He gets recognized profusely and is suddenly arrogant about his heroic status. Finally, Arthur and his friends help his friend realize he should not be so full of himself.

Media: watercolor