Skippyjon Jones, Lost in Spice by Judy Schachner, Judy Schachner (Illustrator)

From Barnes & Noble

Make no mistake; Skippyjon Jones is not your average Siamese kittenboy, no sirree. Now this pint-sized, addle-brained superhero with oversized ears is off to Mars. For some unfathomable reason, he's convinced that the Red Planet owes its color to a massive covering of spicy red pepper. Determined to prove his breakthrough theory, he departs into very spicy space. Pun fun for kids.

From the Publisher

The New York Times bestselling kitty boy blasts off into another hilarious adventure.

Buckle up, amigos— everyone's favorite kitty boy is about to lift off. You'll want to be there when the brave Skippito gets lost in spice!

That's right, spice. Skippy knows— from his big ears to his toes—that the planet Mars is red because it's covered in spicy red pepper. To prove it, he's off on a space jaunt replete with craters, crazies, and creatures from Mars. His new adventure is packed with witty wordplay, Spanish phrases, and Judy Schachner's trademark hilarity. This rollicking romp is simply out of this world.

Publishers Weekly

Skippyjon Jones, the Siamese kitten who thinks he's a Chihuahua, is also “nuts about Mars,” which he decides to visit via a trip to his closet. Passing through the constellations, the space-suited (really, it's a snowsuit) feline encounters Los Chimichangos, who appear in a fiery comet, as well as his green Martian double once he reaches the red planet, which is covered in chili powder. Skippyjon's ludicrous adventures and energetic personality will keep fans happy that his imagination remains unchecked. A recording of the story read by the author is also included. Ages 3–5. (Sept.)

Children's Literature

Skippyjon Jones is a Siamese kitten with big ears and an even bigger imagination. "Skippjon thinks he's a dog," said his sister, "A chi-wow-wow." Now this little dude is about to blast off to Mars. He is sure the red planet is covered with spicy red pepper and muy caliente, and quicker than you can say "holy hot tamales!," Skippjon is no longer Mama's kittyboy but Skippito Friskito, a "weeck-ed" red Chihuahua ready to take one small step into his closet and a giant leap into the universe. Along the way, he encounters Los Chimichangos, a comet conglomerate of Chihuahuas who plan to build a spice pipeline from Mars to Earth, and, of course, several little green Martians including Uno Ojo who looks just like Skippyjon except he is green and has only one eye—and wants to keep Skippyjon's sock monkey. There are many Spanish words and phrases that kids who speak Spanish will enjoy. Silly poems, puns like "Martian into your closet and get us some frijoles," and action-filled illustrations are sure to keep young readers laughing. The plot is a bit confusing but probably less so for readers who are already familiar with Skippyjon and his wild imagination. The book includes a CD of the story read by the author. Reviewer: Anita Barnes Lowen

School Library Journal

K-Gr 3—The irrepressible kitty boy is back in an out-of-this-world adventure involving a visit to Mars. Fans of the wannabe Chihuahua will recognize his Spanish-laced expressions and obsessions, while those new to his style will need time to adjust as the plot shifts between Earth and outer space. In this tale, he comes up against a band of Martians, including one that could be his twin (when one discounts the fact that he's green and one-eyed, hence his nickname Uno Ojo). A tug-of-war over Skippyjon's sock monkey results in the expedition ending with his safe return from the spicy planet (Mars is covered with chili powder). Skippyjon's fans will not be disappointed with his latest adventure. The colorful and energetic illustrations showcase the otherworldly setting while the kitten's alien twin is particularly appealing.—Maura Bresnahan, High Plain Elementary School, Andover, MA

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