Author(s): Shirley Hughes

Picture books

Mr McNally, the neighbour of Alfie and Annie Rose, is very sad. His old cat Smokey has died. As it is nearly his birthday, his family decides to hold a surprise party and buy a particularly special present to cheer him up. It is left to Alfie to look after the present until the big day. . . The loss of a family pet is skilfully handled within the secure world of Alfie and Annie Rose by a warm and sympathetic text, and illustrations bustling with detail and charm.