Gösta Knutsson (text), Stephanie Smee and Ann-Margrete Smee (translation), Lovisa Lesse (illus.) Further Adventures of Pelle No-Tail (Pelle No-Tail #2), Piccolo Nero, 17 July 2017, 158pp., $14.99 (pbk), ISBN: 9781863959391
Pelle No-Tail is a kindly, pragmatic cat who, as his name states, has no tail because it was bitten off by a rat when he was a kitten. However, his lack of tail in no way stops him from leading a full life with plenty of adventures, and even a little romance.
Pelle No-Tail’s adventures are very sweet and will appeal to children who feel different and/or are bullied. Pelle is bullied and made fun of by Måns and Måns’ friends Bill and Bull. Fortunately, unlike in real life, his enemies always get their comeuppance, which is very satisfying for readers.
Pelle is very blase about what is actually a disability: when the topic of his amputated limb is raised he just changes the subject.
Gösta Knutsson (1908–1973) was a Swedish children’s author and radio producer. The first Pelle book was published in 1939 and was followed by more books, comics, television programs, films and plays. Pelle No-Tail is very popular in Sweden.
Further Adventures of Pelle No-Tail is suitable for children aged seven and older.
Reviewed by Katy Gerner
