About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to understand that pets have their own feelings and boundaries, or after a moment of frustration when a 'game' with an animal went wrong. This classic wordless story follows a young girl and her friends as they attempt to dress a cat in doll clothes and push it in a carriage, only to face a comical but chaotic pursuit when the feline decides it has had enough. It is a brilliant tool for teaching empathy and the natural consequences of our actions. Mercer Mayer's expressive illustrations convey a wealth of emotion without a single word, making it perfect for children aged 3 to 7. Parents will appreciate the humor and the gentle lesson in respecting living creatures. It invites children to 'read' the pictures and narrate the story themselves, which builds confidence and emotional literacy. By the end, the book models how to move past a mistake with resilience and a sense of humor.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with minor animal mistreatment in a humorous, slapstick way. The approach is secular and realistic. While the cat is clearly annoyed, the resolution is lighthearted, showing that the children have learned their lesson about the cat's limits.
