Lively, humorous storytelling and this unlikely pair's sweetly-appealing camaraderie, make these early chapter books refreshing additions to classic friendship tales. Catina the cat wants to be a successful writer, while Houndsley the dog is a fabulous cook who dreams of winning an important cooking contest. Without realizing it, both of them seem to be focusing more on the fame and fortune their individual accomplishments might bring them. With support from the other, they each eventually learn that doing what you love - and having the support of a caring friend — is the true reward in HOUNDSLEY AND CATINA, the first book in this delightful series. In HOUNDSLEY AND CATINA AND THE BIRTHDAY SURPRISE, Houndsley worries that he has made his friend Catina sad by admitting that he doesn't know when his birthday is and reminding her that she doesn't know hers either. He attempts to cheer her up by baking her a birthday cake.

Being the dear friend that she is, Catina counters with her own surprise. Together the engaging feline and canine pals once again exhibit the true meaning of friendship in this warm and humorous story.