Paka Mdogo: Little Cat by H.S. Toshack takes young readers on a journey to explore the characteristics of various animals and their survival in the wild. The author writes about Sheena's adventures in the African wild. Sheena, a cat, lives with the Allen family in a housing compound in Africa. While taking a walk, Sheena encounters Kenge, a savannah monitor lizard from the north. He tells Sheena many stories about the north, which piques her curiosity and makes her eager to explore. Sheena devises a plan to sneak into the family's Land Rover during a trip to Baragandiri National Park. However, something unexpected happens, and Sheena encounters other animals such as a jackal, a giraffe, a leopard, baboons, and more.

Reading this story was truly a beautiful experience, due to the captivating writing and well-developed characters. I learned so much about animals from this book, particularly some features animals possess for survival, such as the long blue tongue of the monitor lizard used for smell and direction, and more. I also understood the instincts of cats and the behaviors of jackals and a few other animals featured. The illustrations were lovely and made the story even more appealing to children. The writing is well-paced, organized, detailed, and easy to comprehend. I found this story both entertaining and educational. It introduces children to literature and teaches them to appreciate wildlife. I recommend Paka Mdogo: Little Cat by H.S. Toshack to young readers and anyone who enjoys stories about animals.

Paka Mdogo: Little Cat by H.S. Toshack takes readers on an adventure through the Baragandiri National Park. This second edition, featuring illustrations by M.N. McAllister, tells the story of Sheena, a curious and brave black-and-white cat. Sheena unexpectedly ends up in the wilds of Africa. The book features a diverse group of characters, from the lazy dog Safi to the wise monitor lizard Kenge, the majestic giraffe Twiga, and the fierce Nyanya, the raggedy lion. Each encounter deepens Sheena’s journey, providing insights into the behaviors and struggles of the animals she meets.

The dialogue is lively and often humorous, highlighting the unique personalities of the creatures while incorporating Kiswahili words that enhance the cultural setting of the story. Readers are transported to a world of golden grasslands, acacia trees, and dried riverbeds, where survival is a constant challenge. The story emphasizes the fragile balance of life in the wild, where every decision can mean the difference between life and death. The pacing is engaging, balancing moments of tension and danger with lighter, humorous exchanges. A map of Baragandiri National Park adds an interactive element, helping readers visualize Sheena’s journey. Paka Mdogo: Little Cat is a fable that blends adventure with life lessons, making it suitable for readers of all ages. It offers a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of life and the importance of understanding and respecting the natural world. H.S. Toshack’s imaginative storytelling, along with vibrant characters, makes this an entertaining and educational book.

Paka Mdogo: Little Cat by H.S. Toshack follows Sheena, a black-and-white cat, who observes the rhythms of the Allen family household and finds herself removed from her familiar paths. Sheena meets Kenge, a monitor lizard who shares stories of the northern savannah and teaches her lessons in awareness and defense. During a family trip to Baragandiri National Park, Sheena hides in the Land Rover. She explores the park, meeting wild animals such as Mbweha, the black-backed jackal, and a pride of lions led by Nyanya. She rides on Twiga, a Maasai giraffe, and even sees baboons in the Manyani troop. But there are also predators. With guidance from Kenge, Twiga, and a Bateleur eagle, Sheena traverses rivers, trees, and plains in an effort to read the movements of wildlife so she can protect the family she silently follows.

Paka Mdogo by H.S. Toshack is a really imaginative adventure through the wilderness, and I love that we see it through Sheena's eyes, a small but wonderfully resourceful cat. Every chapter is an introduction to a new animal met along the way, for better or for worse, and Toshack's portrayal of the land as a lively, breathing environment is textured. Sheena’s interactions reveal intelligence, curiosity, and adaptability, whether she is observing lion behavior, learning baboon customs, or cooperating with a Bateleur eagle to get a strategic view of the terrain. Sheena is likable with her empathy and careful ingenuity, which Toshack reveals with the restrained hand of a gifted writer. Overall, this is a story of warm-hearted discovery that honors the diversity of the natural world. Very highly recommended.

Paka Mdogo by H.S. Toshack tells the story of a clever and adorable cat named Sheena. While exploring her neighborhood, she encounters a monitor lizard. Is it a friend or a foe? The lizard introduces Sheena to a whole new world up north, far from her home. How exciting would it be to embark on an adventure in a different part of Africa, unlike anything she has experienced in the past year? Little does Sheena know, but she is about to have that very adventure. The Allen family, with whom she was staying, planned a trip, but they did not intend to include her. However, Sheena is a clever cat and found a way to tag along. Unfortunately, she soon became separated from the Allen family in an area filled with wild animals. Will she be able to find her way back safely? Join Sheena as she embarks on a dangerous journey far from home!

H.S. Toshack’s Paka Mdogo is an exciting and well-written story that moves at a moderate pace. I enjoyed following Sheena's adventures in the wild. Not only is this book entertaining, but it is also educational and great for young readers. It will teach them about different animals. I learned about various animals mentioned in the book, particularly warthogs, which are large with tusks. Realistic illustrations by M. N. McAllister help make Sheena's adventures, the animals she meets, and the places she visits easier for children to imagine and enjoy. I could not help but admire Sheena's curious mind and bravery. However, I also began to worry for her, as she was just a small cat in such a vast and unfamiliar place. I am glad I came across such a unique and wonderful story; it was truly an entertaining read. Well done!