Simon's Secret

The new kitten is deaf and an orphan within the first few pages. Simon is deaf, too. Eventually these two strike up a relationship when the kitten finds comfort in Simon's cubby. (That's den in England. This is an Australian story but it doesn't show.) The author avoids making this a tract for understanding the deaf. Simon's rejection by his peers is factually described: he simply can't hear the rules of the game even when they are yelled at him. Meeting the unquestioning, affectionate cat is just what Simon needs. The climax of the book, when the whole neighbourhood searches for Simon who is only found when the cat's cries are heard, is well written. The resolution of Simon's social problems may seem a little easy but it rings true. Lorraine Hannay's illustrations suit well. A stimulating book for seven/eight year olds.