My Cat Maisie

Reach for this book when you notice your child being a bit too boisterous or rough with pets, or when they are struggling to understand why a neighborhood animal won't play with them. It is an essential tool for teaching children that friendship with animals is a privilege earned through quiet observation and physical restraint rather than exuberant chase. Andrew is a lonely boy who desperately wants a playmate. When a stray cat named Maisie appears, he tries to play with her the way he might play with a human friend: by grabbing and shouting. His actions inadvertently scare Maisie away, forcing Andrew to reflect on his behavior. Through simple, repetitive text and expressive illustrations, children learn the value of gentleness and the art of the apology. This story is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who are still learning to regulate their physical energy and empathize with smaller creatures.