I read quite a bit of young adult fiction, but have never felt strongly enough about one of these to recommend it to everyone – until now.  Ms. Appelt’s first novel, nominated for a National Book Award, is so lyrical, so moving and so appealing that I could not put it down.  Set on the border between Texas and Louisiana, an abandoned and pregnant cat finds comfort and friendship with an abused bloodhound chained in the yard of a shack in the bayou.  This is a tale of love and revenge, good and evil, sorrow and happiness, and may be too overwhelming for pre-teens.  The writing is rhythmic, poetic and hypnotic.  If you haven’t tried a book meant for younger readers for a while, treat yourself to this one.