In this playful homage to Charles Dickens, Skilley, an alley cat with an embarrassing secret, longs to escape his street-cat life.

"Expertly realized characters and effervescent storytelling make this story of unlikely friendship, royal ravens, and 'the finest cheese in London' a delight." ―Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

"A success in every way." ―School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

"Readers with great expectations will find them fully satisfied by this tongue-in-cheek romp through a historic public House." ―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

Hoping to trade London's damp alleyways for the warmth of ye olde Cheshire Cheese Inn, Skilley strikes a bargain with Pip, an erudite mouse. Skilley will protect the mice who live at the inn, and in turn, the mice will provide Skilley with the thing he desires most. But when Skilley and Pip are drawn into a crisis of monumental proportions, their new friendship is pushed to its limits. The escalating crisis threatens the peace not only of the Cheshire Cheese Inn but the entire British Monarchy!

New York Times best-selling author Carmen Agra Deedy and author Randall Wright collaborate on this compelling story set in Victorian England. With the artwork of award-winning illustrator Barry Moser, The Cheshire Cheese Cat is filled with charming characters and strong themes of friendship and loyalty.

Discussion Guide available!

Parents' Choice Gold Award - Parents' Choice Foundation

Best Children's Books of the Year - Bank Street College of Education

Best Children's Books of 2011 - Kirkus Reviews

Best Fiction Books of 2011 - School Library Journal