No Kiss for Mother

by Tomi Ungerer
No Kiss for Mother cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Technical:
  • ID: 1664
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • Reviews: 2
Reviews
outsideinworld.org.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-08
engaging 3.50

The book 'No Kiss for Mother' is a classic children's book with themes of independence and rebellion, but it's not as outrageous as its marketing suggests. The reviewer found the story engaging for a three-year-old, though the child thought it was too long and weird.

The book 'No Kiss for Mother' is a classic children's story that explores themes of independence and rebellion through the character of Piper Paw, a kitten who dislikes his mother's affection. The reviewer read the book to a three-year-old, who found the story engaging but thought it was too long and a bit weird. The reviewer notes that the book's production values are excellent, fitting for a renowned illustrator like Tomi Ungerer. While the book does contain some controversial elements like corporal punishment and streetwise behavior, it's not as outrageous as the marketing suggests. The reviewer's child enjoyed the interaction with the book, even if they found it a bit strange.

Quick quotes

    The outrageous and controversial classic … back in print for the first time in 30 years!

    I think this story is kind of weird.

    What did you think of that story?

    Actually, she says, it was too long.

theglobeandmail.com · Unknown · 2013-01-11
engaging 4.00

No Kiss for Mother is an irreverent and witty classic that explores the challenging relationship between a mischievous kitten, Piper Paw, and his affectionate mother. The book's dark humor and controversial elements, such as corporal punishment and historical references, make it a thought-provoking read for children.

No Kiss for Mother is a delightful and somewhat controversial children's book that delves into the complex dynamics between parents and their children. The story revolves around Piper Paw, a rebellious kitten who despises his mother's affectionate gestures. Piper's antics, from sprinkling itching powder on classmates to stuffing the teacher's handbag with spiders, make him the 'rowdy cat' of his class. The book's dark humor and smudgy grey illustrations create a world that is far from cute, reflecting Piper's chaotic behavior. The controversial elements, such as corporal punishment and a reference to Nazi occupation, add layers of depth and historical context. Despite its irreverent tone, the book ultimately shows Piper learning to compromise, making it a relatable and engaging read for young audiences.

Quick quotes

    The sometimes dark humour pervades both the text and the images.

    Piper’s antics are reflected in the artwork — a fight with a classmate that results in his ear nearly being torn off, followed by the two boys hiding out in a school bathroom smoking cigars before a painful visit to the school nurse to be patched up.

    This irreverent, outrageous and witty classic is sure to appeal to children.

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