Description
Dad and Little Yvette are planning a special surprise for some very special. All day long, as they prepare, eager Yvette asks Dad,  "Is it time yet?"
And all day long, a patient Dad answers, "Not yet, Yvette."
But finally, after all the preparations are done, it IS time! And guess who gets to say that? This joyous family story shows how much fun giving can be.

Yvette looked for something special. "Cat earrings for a cat doctor!" said Yvette. " You're a good shopper, Yvette," said Dad. "Are we done shopping?" "Not yet Yvette."

Yvette found wrapping paper with cats on it. "Terrific!" said Dad. "Now for paper plates and napkins." "Let's get blue and white, to match the sweater," said Yvette. "NOW is the time, Dad?" "Not yet, Yvette. There's still more to do."

 Reviews
"It would be difficult to find more likeable party givers than this high-spirited heroine and her calmer but equally enthusiastic dad, who aptly illustrate just how much fun giving can be."
PW, 2/92

"This warm story is complemented and extended by pictures alive with color and joy of family." 
The Horn Book, Jan-June, 1992

Dad and little Yvette spend a companionable day cleaning the house, baking a cake, and preparing a birthday party for ``a cat doctor''--a day punctuated with Yvette's eager questions and Dad's patient responses until at last the guest of honor appears. It's Mom, the vet, home from work just in time for the festivities. The simple story is deftly conveyed in natural- sounding dialogue. Trivas's colorful illustrations are lively and freely rendered (sometimes too freely, as in the case of one impossible clock face); with many cozy details, including the amusing antics of the family cats, they nicely reflect this black family's warm pleasure in each other's company.
Copyright ©1992, Kirkus Associates, LP.