Based on the true story of a baby and a cat that survived a major flood in Holland in 1421, this picture book is a perfect blend of first class text and rich illustrations. Katje has always been happy living with Nico in his mill house, but when he brings his bride Lena home, Katje finds herself ostracised. It is even worse when baby Anneke arrives. The baby and Katje enjoy each other's company, but Lena turns the cat out of the house, and Katje takes up residence in the windmill. One night of terrible storms the dike breaks, and Katje runs to the house and jumps into the cradle with Anneke - which is swept from the house in the raging flood. It is Katje who saves the baby by keeping the cradle upright. The warm colours of the Breughal-like illustrations, combined with delicate drawings of delft tiles on each page, set the story firmly in context, and as always with Bayley, the cat is a delight. This is a book to treasure, not only for little siblings who are finding life with a new baby difficult, but for everyone.