Bat and Rat are two best friends living in the big city. Together these nocturnal pals enjoy their favorite things, like riding the subway, dumpster diving in Chinatown, writing songs, and playing in a band. One hot summer night, while tasting their favorite flavors of ice cream, like mosquito ripple, they find the inspiration for the perfect new tune - for they realize their favorite favorite is each other. Written in a gentle, sweet style reminiscent of Arnold Lobel and Patrick McDonnell and with charming illustrations, Bat and Rat captures the tenderness of classic picture books with a hip, modern twist. Praise for Bat and Rat "Cordell's starry cityscapes combine with Jennings' gentle text for an agreeable read-aloud - with a cherry on top." - Kirkus Reviews "The clever artwork perfectly complements Jennings's sharp, funny wordplay. Children will delight in this charming story." - School Library Journal "Cordell's images of jazzy patrons at the Twelve O'Clock Room add interest, while his consistent use of spotlights, streetlights, circular images, and stage lights accentuate and complement Jennings' focused attention on a unique and caring relationship." - Library Media Connection

Author Biography

Patrick Jennings is the author of the critically acclaimed middle-grade novels We Can't All Be Rattlesnakes and Guinea Dog. He lives in Port Townsend, Washington. Matthew Cordell is the illustrator of Trouble Gum and Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie. He lives in Gurnee, Illinois.