
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with feelings of displacement, whether due to a new sibling, a friend making a new connection, or even a new pet entering the home. It is a gentle but honest look at the messy side of jealousy and the natural urge to protect one's territory. Cat is the undisputed favorite until Bear arrives, sparking a series of naughty behaviors as Cat tries to regain her status. The story validates that feeling 'cantankerous' is normal, while modeling how to move through guilt and realize that love is not a limited resource. Perfect for preschoolers and early elementary children, it offers a safe space to discuss big, sometimes 'mean' feelings without judgment.
The book deals with mild behavioral 'acting out' (hiding items, tossing a toy) as a metaphor for sibling rivalry. The approach is secular and metaphorical. The resolution is hopeful and realistic: they don't become perfect, but they learn to coexist.
A 4-year-old who is showing signs of aggression or regression after the birth of a sibling, or a child who struggles with sharing a 'best friend' at school.
Read cold. The illustrations by Anne Mortimer are detailed and realistic, which helps ground the feline 'bad behavior' in a way kids will recognize from their own pets or impulses. A parent might reach for this after seeing their child hide a sibling's toy, 'accidentally' knock something over, or express vocal dislike for someone who hasn't done anything wrong.
Younger children (3 to 4) will focus on the slapstick nature of Cat's tricks and the relief of the rescue. Older children (5 to 7) will better grasp the internal conflict of Cat missing the very thing they thought they hated.
Unlike many 'new baby' books that are overly sweet, Greene allows Cat to be genuinely grumpy and even a bit 'mean.' This honesty makes the eventual redemption feel earned rather than forced.
Cat is the Child's constant companion until Bear is gifted to the household. Frustrated by Bear's sunny disposition and the Child's divided attention, Cat engages in a series of 'accidents' to remove Bear, eventually throwing him out a window. When Bear is gone, Cat experiences a surprising sense of loss and guilt, leading to a rescue and a new, shared dynamic.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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