Puss in Boots (Pinkney book) facts for kids
![]() First edition
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Author | Jerry Pinkney |
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Illustrator | Jerry Pinkney |
Country | USA |
Language | English |
Genre | Children's literature, picture book, Fairy tale |
Published | 2012 (Dial Books for Young Readers) |
Media type | Print (hardback, paperback) |
Pages | 40 (unpaginated) |
ISBN | 9780803716421 |
OCLC | 764583729 |
Puss in Boots is a 2012 picture book that retells the classic fairy tale. Written and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney, it brings the famous story to life. The book is based on the version of the tale by Charles Perrault. It tells the exciting adventure of a very clever cat who helps his owner find fame and fortune.
Contents
The Clever Cat's Journey
This section explores the main story of Puss in Boots. It shows how a smart cat can change someone's life. The tale is full of tricks and surprises.
A Special Inheritance
The story begins with a miller who dies. He leaves his three sons their inheritance. The oldest son gets the mill. The middle son gets the donkey. The youngest son, however, gets only a cat. The youngest son feels sad and worried. He thinks he will starve because a cat is not much help.
Puss's Smart Plan
The cat, named Puss, is no ordinary cat. He is very intelligent and can talk! Puss asks his new owner for a bag and a pair of boots. The owner is surprised but gives him what he asks for. Puss puts on the boots and looks very grand. He then sets off to make his owner rich.
Hunting for the King
Puss uses his cleverness to catch rabbits and partridges. He takes these animals to the King. Each time, Puss tells the King that the gifts are from his master, the "Marquis of Carabas." The King is very pleased with these gifts. He does not know that the Marquis of Carabas does not exist. Puss keeps doing this for many months.
Meeting the Princess
One day, Puss learns that the King and his beautiful daughter, the Princess, will be riding by a river. Puss tells his master to go bathe in the river at that exact spot. While his master is in the water, Puss hides his clothes. When the King's carriage passes, Puss cries for help. He tells the King that robbers stole his master's clothes.
The Fake Marquis
The King, remembering the generous gifts, sends his servants to help. They bring the master fine clothes from the King's own wardrobe. The master, now dressed in splendid clothes, looks like a true nobleman. The King invites him to ride in the carriage with him and the Princess. The Princess is very impressed by the "Marquis of Carabas."
Tricking the Ogre
As the carriage travels, Puss runs ahead. He tells the farmers in the fields to say that the land belongs to the Marquis of Carabas. He threatens them if they do not obey. The King asks the farmers whose land this is. They all reply, "The Marquis of Carabas!" The King is amazed by how much land the Marquis owns.
The Ogre's Castle
Puss finally arrives at a grand castle. This castle belongs to a powerful ogre. The ogre can change himself into any animal. Puss bravely enters the castle. He challenges the ogre to show his powers. Puss asks the ogre to turn into a lion. The ogre does so, and Puss pretends to be scared.
The Mouse Trick
Then, Puss asks the ogre to turn into something very small, like a mouse. The ogre, wanting to show off, changes into a tiny mouse. Quick as a flash, Puss pounces on the mouse and eats him! This way, Puss takes over the ogre's castle.
A Happy Ending
When the King's carriage arrives at the castle, Puss greets them. He announces that this magnificent castle belongs to the Marquis of Carabas. The King is truly astonished by the Marquis's wealth. The King is so impressed that he offers his daughter's hand in marriage to the "Marquis." The master, who was once a poor miller's son, marries the Princess. He becomes a prince and lives happily ever after. Puss in Boots becomes a great lord and only hunts for fun.
Jerry Pinkney's Vision
Jerry Pinkney was a famous American artist. He was known for his beautiful illustrations in children's books. He won many awards for his work.
Pinkney's Art Style
Pinkney's version of "Puss in Boots" is special because of his detailed and expressive artwork. He used watercolors and pencils to create his pictures. His illustrations bring the characters and settings to life. They help young readers imagine the story clearly. Pinkney often drew animals with very human-like expressions. This made his Puss in Boots character even more charming and clever.
Why This Book is Special
Jerry Pinkney's "Puss in Boots" is loved for several reasons:
- It retells a classic fairy tale in a fresh way.
- The illustrations are rich and full of emotion.
- It teaches about cleverness and quick thinking.
- It shows how kindness can lead to good things.
The book helps children understand the story's themes. These include using your brain, being resourceful, and believing in yourself.