APA Citation: Simmie, L. (1995). Mister got to go. (C. Nugent, Illus.) Red Deer, AB: Red Deer College Press.
Plot summary: A stray cat wanders into the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver one stormy night, and despite the manager’s protests (“That cat’s got to go…”), ends up staying for the next seven years. In exchange for room and board the cat ends up working as a dog detector – as dogs are strictly prohibited at the Sylvia! What follows is a heartwarming tale – based on a true story – about friendship and family.
Relation to other works: This story is quite unlike any other than I have come across, but would be a good selection for children who like stories about animals or “slice-of-life” tales in general.
Appeal: This story is every (animal loving) child’s fantasy come true – a cat wanders into a person’s life and refuses to leave! The watercolour illustrations are particularly notable, and evoke the rain and drizzle for which Vancouver is famous. Also, for children living in and around the Vancouver area, it is a lot of fun to point out the recognizable landmarks in the illustrations.
Audience or readership: Ages 5-8.
Limitations or weaknesses: While there is a little action involving a nasty raccoon, for the most part Mister Got to Go is a fairly even-keeled story. In this sense, it might seem a little bland or lacking in plot when stacked up against some of the goofier stories available.
Overall assessment: I enjoy action and antics as much as the next reader, but I found this story completely charming. Children might find it a little boring at times, but a little prodding on the parents’ part can spark a fun conversation about what they would do if a cat wandered into their house on a rainy day. Beautiful illustrations and a lovely story overall. Grade: A
KIDS LIT FTW! 