Like Likes Like

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Raschka, Chris. 2001. Like Likes Like. Ill. by Chris Raschka. DK Publishing. ISBN 0789425645. Reading level: Baby-Preschool

PLOT SUMMARY

The author, Raschka, weaves a story through a pity feline’s loneliness and yearning for friendship.
“Two by two, he and she, curly and straight, fancy and plain, different and same”. In this world of pairs, the cat feels alone when all the other animals have their pairs. With a wish to have its own friend, the cat goes to journey that is full of nature such as roses, seas, flowers and fliers, trees and skies, grass and mounds, and stones. In this world, the cat still looks like lonely and yearning for a friend. When the cat finally meets its own mate, with dark brown furs and green eyes, it really looks happy.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Words pairs such as ‘rows and rose’, ‘sees and seas’ and ‘flowers and fliers’ make the reading rhythmical and playful. Raschka’s simple prose mixes up well with the illustrations. Oil pastels and watercolor are used to enrich the white kitten’s story. The cat’s face is full of expression, and it reflects loneliness and sadness. The background colors also tell a story. Yellow, blue, green colors are more intensive and dark when the cat is alone. And the pink convey the delight when the cat found its ‘like.’

REVIEW EXCERPTS

From Publishers Weekly
"This pert and pithy picture book has strong visual echoes of Raschka's Yo! Yes? down to the bright yellow dust jacket. But if the thematic territory of loneliness and friendship is familiar, the development and spirit here are fresh."

From School Library Journal
"Raschka told a hip story of blossoming friendship in spare and sweet prose."

CONNECTIONS

*Another book from Chris Raschka
Raschka, Chris. Yo! Yes? ISBN: 0531071081
*Books about friendship
Carle Eric. Do You Want to Be My Friend? ISBN: 0399215980
Bonsall, Crosby. Mine's the Best ISBN: 0064442136