The Birthday

By Hans Fischer

Animals plan a surprise birthday party with unexpected delights.

3.8/7 Bookroo expert·3.8/5 Goodreads · 13 ratings

40 pages

$14.95Save 6%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Old Lisette's birthday takes a delightful turn when her animals, led by her dog Bello, orchestrate a surprise party. As she visits the village, the cats bake, chickens lay extra eggs, and rabbits gather candles. Returning home, Lisette finds a festive table and a play by Bello. The ducks host a pond party, but the true surprise awaits: new baby kittens. This charming tale of friendship and celebration, brought to life with vibrant illustrations, promises a heartwarming adventure for all ages.

From the publisher

A Swiss classic back in print! Beloved illustrator Hans Fischer’s captivating story–about Old Lisette and her many animals that throw a surprise birthday party for her–has charmed generations of children. When Lisette goes to the village on her birthday, her dog, Bello, and the other animals get to work. The cats bake a cake, the chickens lay extra eggs, the goat picks flowers for the birthday table, and the rabbits find seventy-six candles. When Lisette returns in the evening, she is surprised by the animals welcoming her to a festive table. After the meal, Bello put on a play for Lisette, and the ducks organize a party on the pond. But the highlight of the party is the most beautiful birthday surprise: the cats, Mauli and Ruli, proudly show Lisette their new baby kittens. Fischer’s inimitable lines and colorful palette make this birthday celebration one to remember.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 40
Reading age: 5–8
Audience: Picture

Themes & topics

Books about birthdays Books about parties Books about cats Books about dogs Books about holidays

What readers & critics say

Reviews

3.8

out of 7

3.8

“This classic Swiss tale is just a little too off-the-wall for my liking. I found it quite random and a little bizarre, but my guess is that those who have memories of reading this book in their childhood will enjoy this rendition about an old women whose animals work together to throw her a surprise birthday celebration. The illustrations are charming and fit the classic tale.”

B is for Bookworm

Trusted reviewer

For readers who can't stop at one