From Caldecott Medalist Nonny Hogrogian...
A
 cat (who loves to sing) stomps on a thorn but, through a series of 
chance encounters, is able to turn his luck around and acquire a 
mandolin. A fateful trade of the thorn for a loaf of bread and the cat 
is on his way.  Among the characters he meets are a sly fox, a fair 
maiden, and a shepherd who has lost his flock.  By lending a helping 
hand to all those in need, the cat ultimately finds his own happiness 
too.  As in life, getting to where you need to be is never a straight 
path.  
THE CAT WHO LOVED TO SING is great for anyone, ages 6 to 96.
Paperback Edition