Ed Young, author, illustrator
Publisher: Square Fish (November 15, 1998)
ISBN-13 : 978-0805060492
To select the animals of the zodiac, the Jade Emperor has called for a race between all the animals with the first twelve winners honored by having years named after them. Cat and Rat were once the best of friends—until this contest made them the worst of enemies.
“In this intriguing picture book, Caldecott Medalist Young … retells a Chinese folktale about the origins of the zodiac … Complex and well-told, the story will hold the reader’s interest.”
―Publishers Weekly
“Once again Mr. Young has brought ancient folktales to life with his stunning and, in the case of Cat and Rat, startling artwork.”
―New York Times Book Review
“Handsome design and execution.”
―Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books