Fuse 8 n’ Kate: Mr. Maxwell’s Mouse by Frank Asch, ill. Devin Asch

Kate’s crie de coeur for more blood and guts in children’s picture books once again finds its mark. Usually you might associate a book of this sort with titles of a more European bent, but Asch and son are 100% ‘merican, baby. With enough weirdness to choke a cat, this one’s just so very strange. Not to give anything away but I am exceedingly pleased to state that this book is still in print in paperback form today. We discuss houndstooth suits, Itchy and Scratchy, the sinking of the Titanic, and more.

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Show Notes:

Kate saw this as Amsterdam, but name whatever European city you like to this book. As publication pages go, this is a very cool vibe.

As Kate points out, lillies are toxic to cats. Somewhat ironic that the restaurant is putting something so poisonous to kitties out as a decorative element.

As Kate points out, this is a mighty peculiar image to place in a picture book for kids. Look at those tines!

The rich really and truly are different from you and I! These people are dancing at 1:22 in the afternoon!

Folks, I am fairly certain that we have just crossed the line into Itchy and Scratchy territory. Indeed, I do believe I’ve seen this exact plot on that show before.

Kate Recommends: The Okra Project – Black Trans Led Mutual Aid.

Betsy Recommends: Doppleganger by Naomi Klein

Filed under: Fuse 8 n' Kate