Book Review: "Moo Kitty Finds a Home" By Valerie Lee Veltre Just in time for Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month

Precious, heart-warming, hopeful, educational, delightful are just a few words that come to mind when reading Moo Kitty Finds a Home by Author Valerie Lee Veltre.

Cover Photo Courtesy Of
http://www.mookittyfindsahome.com/

Moo Kitty Finds a Home is based on a true story of a black and white kitty who bears a resemblance to a Holstein cow, hence the name "Moo".

He spent many years in bliss with his human, until one day, she was called to Heaven.

Moo was heart-broken as any kitty would be. He gazed in fear and shock as strangers came into his home, removed all that was familiar to him, and unceremoniously placed HIM by the trash.

Frightened and feeling alone, Moo is visited briefly by three Angel kitties, an orange cat named Fred, a red and white spotted cat named Calvin, and a Calico named Maybelle. They reassure Moo that they are his guardian angels and will guide him to safety. They let Moo know that even if he doesn't SEE them, they ARE there protecting him every step of the way.

Moo realizes he must rely on hope, faith and courage and BELIEVE that he will one day find a home. He is sad but keeps believing that it WILL happen.

He meets a nice man who feeds him and takes him to a shelter where he makes many new friends. He soon realizes that most of the families that are coming in want to adopt kittens, NOT an older cat.

He watches his kitten friends, even a rabbit and his gray striped cat friend (appropriately named Stripes) all find homes before him.

How long will Moo have to wait to be adopted? You will have to read the book to find out!


This book couldn't be more perfect, since November is Adopt- A -Senior- Pet- Month


"Each year, six to eight million cats and dogs are abandoned in the U.S. They are taken to shelters, left homeless, and in some sad cases, euthanized."

Photo Courtesy of Petfinder.com

The illustrations in Moo Kitty Finds a Home are colorful and fun eye-candy that were lovingly created by Illustrator Liz Leonard.  If you are interested in seeing more of her work you can visit lizleonardillustration.com

Photo Courtesy Of
http://www.mookittyfindsahome.com/

It is no surprise that this book is a Mom's Choice Awards Gold Recipient:

"This heart-filled story offers an opportunity to introduce children to the concepts of loss, abandonment, adoption and pet-responsibility in a positive and age-appropriate manner. Adorable in every way!" --The Mom's Choice Awards 

In the back of the book is a section that lists the benefits of adopting an adult pet, some of those are:

• you'll reduce the population of strays on the street by opening shelter space for another animal
• often animals from shelters have already been neutered, wormed and vaccinated
• adult animals are more sedate, making them a practical choice for the elderly and families with children

Kudos to Author Valerie Lee Veltre for writing this heart-warming and educational gem! Rest assured that Moo Kitty is alive and well. He enjoys inspecting his flower garden and can often be found in his favorite chair, napping on his mint green blanket. How do I know this? It was Valerie who rescued Moo Kitty and gave him a forever home!! You can learn more about Valerie by visiting valerieleeveltre.com

Moo Kitty Finds a Home
is for ages 5 and up
ISBN: 978-1-60800-010-4
Published by Squidgy Press
an imprint of:
LifeReloaded Specialty Publishing
LLC, Lancaster, PA

It is available at bookstores, libraries, online and at www.MooKittyFindsAHome.com

BREAKING NEWS from Moo Kitty!!! "Save 20%. Do you know it's adopt a Senior Pet Month? You can help one of our favorite non-profits today!

We've teamed up with Kitten Associates to promote ADULT animal adoption! For every Moo Kitty book sold in November, we will donate $1.

00 to Kitten Associates, Inc.

Follow the link and enter promo code: senior12 to get the 20% discount plus free shipping in the continental US!

http://www.mookittyfindsahome.com/promo1.html

I was sent a copy of Moo Kitty Finds a Home for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review. 

Book Revew: "Cat and Crow: An amazing friendship" By Lisa Fleming, Illustrations by Anne Marie Dominik-Harris. ENTER TO WIN A COPY!

One of my favorite parts of blogging, (if not THE most favorite part), is the books that are sent to me to review either directly from the publisher, the authors themselves, or those that were sent to me via recommendations from dear friends.

 I am delighted to share with you:

Cat and Crow An Amazing Friendship  (published by Collage Books Inc.), was written by Lisa Fleming. One of my dear cat blogging friends, (Layla Morgan Wilde of the Pettie nominated Cat Wisdom 101 and her other inspirational blog, The Boomer Muse), referred Lisa to me knowing that I would be greatly touched by this inspirational gem, and that I would enjoy featuring it. She couldn't have been more correct.

This black cat was the FIRST
cat to give a "4-paw" review!
We couldn't agree more!
Photo courtesy of Lisa Fleming

Cat and Crow is based on the true story of a cat, (Cassie), and a crow, (Moses), who, in spite of  their obvious differences, became the best of friends.

When compiling a list of "must read" Children's books, be SURE that this one is on your list!

Photo Courtesy of Lisa Fleming's Facebook Page
To Visit, Please Click Here

The story originates at the home of Ann and Wally Collito who witnessed this phenomenon take place and watched in joy and wonder as  they first noticed the crow (Moses), feeding a worm to the black and white kitten (Cassie). It is believed that the crow saved the kitten's life and decided to designate itself as the kitten's mother, playmate, guardian angel and best buddy.

Every day for four years the Collito's watched the amazing display of friendship with complete awe.

Look carefully!
If you look at the door you will see
Moses' head peeking in
looking for Cassie!!
He would tap at with his beak every morning
until the Collito's would let Cassie out!
Photo Courtesy of Lisa Fleming

How could two animals who were not in the least connected genetically, and who were supposed to be mortal enemies,  become the best of friends?

Moses and Cassie "hug"
Photo Courtesy of Lisa Fleming

When Lisa Fleming first saw the cat and crow friendship on  YouTube she knew she had to share this inspirational and awe-inspiring story with the world.

From Lisa: "I knew in my heart that I wanted to share this true story with the world. When I contacted the Collitos, they welcomed me into their home and encouraged me to write the story of these two incredible animals. I have since formed a special connection with this family and their beloved cat, Cassie."

Lisa Fleming, Wally Collito and "Cassie"
The book is also dedicated in remembrance of
Ann Collito
Photo compliments of Lisa's Facebook page
to visit click here

Lisa wrote this enlightening  Children's book (which is charmingly illustrated by Anne Marie Dominik-Harris),  in an attempt to "help educate future generations on being part of the solution for helping feral and stray cats."







If a crow can adopt, care for, love and protect a feral kitten, without "seeing" physical and genetic differences, why can't some of us do the same for feral kittens as well as for each other?

I couldn't help but be reminded of the Paul McCartney song "Ebony and Ivory" when reading this book.  How ironic that Moses the crow is black and Cassie the cat is black and white? Something to think about.



In addition to the heartwarming story as written by Lisa,  the back of the Cat and Crow has an update about Moses and Cassie, charming photographs from the Collito's, various newspaper clippings, a section called  Feathers (Fun Facts About Crows) with information provided by Bernd Heinrich, Ph.D (professor emeritus in the biology department at the University of Vermont), and a section entitled Fur (Fun Facts about cats) with information provided by Nancy Peterson, Cat Programs Manager for the Humane Society of the United States.

The story of the Cat and Crow is a story of complete trust, acceptance, loyalty, protection, devotion, having the capability of being able to love and nuture  another completely,  in spite of  obvious  differences.

Wally Collito believes that if it hadn't been for the loving care of Moses, Cassie, who was a feral kitten (before she was taken in by the Collito's) would have died.  Lisa informed me that Cassie just turned 13 this past June!!! 

Wally Collito also states in the video on YouTube:

 "One important lesson is that two strangers need to get along with each other."
If they do, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!

To that I offer a resounding Amen.

Photo Courtesy of Lisa Fleming's Facebook Page
To visit, click here

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lisa Fleming, a former newspaper columnist and freelance writer, is passionate about animals and wildlife. She is dedicated to helping those in need, by creating ideas that inspire charitable endeavors in her Southwest Florida community. She does many elementary school visits, helping to educate future generations about feral and stray cats.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: Anne Marie Dominik-Harris, a University of the Arts graduate and Fulbright Memorial Fund Scholarship recipient, is a high school art teacher in Southern New Jersey, who also enjoys a freelance career in illustration.


ISBN 978-0-938728-23-8
www.collagebooks.com

GIVE-AWAY OPEN TO EVERYONE!
One lucky reader is going to win a copy of Cat and Crow An Amazing Friendship!

 TO ENTER:
Leave a comment telling me why you would like to win this book. (Be sure I have a way to reach you should you be the winner)

BONUS ENTRY: "like" Cat And Crow on Facebook by clicking here and let me know in a separate comment that you did so.


CONTEST DEADLINE: MONDAY JULY 30, 2012 AT 11PM EASTERN. WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED WEDNESDAY AUGUST 1, 2012.


GOOD LUCK!!

Book Review: "Where Is Catkin?" Written by Janet Lord, Illustrated by Julie Paschkis

"This is a beautiful and
delightful book!"

"The word catkin is a calque from the Dutch katteken, meaning "kitten", on account of the resemblance to a kitten's tail.^[1]"  (taken from Catkin-Wikipedia, you can see more definitions and photos here)



If you have ever observed a cat outdoors, you were certain to see them forever chasing the "elusive butterfly", the flitting fly, galloping grasshopper, cavorting cricket or whatever has recently struck their fancy.


The outcome in most of these scenarios? The cat gets within a paw's reach of the tempting object, the object of desire manages to escape, leaving the cat with a bewildered look, frustrated and empty-pawed.

For cats it is all about the "hunt". From the Publisher: "When Catkin jumps off Amy's lap for an afternoon of hunting, his adventurous nature eventually turns into trouble!"

"When Catkin hears a rustling by the tree, he finds himself in a tough spot by climbing up to the highest branch to investigate. It's a long, long way back down to the ground. Now who will hear Catkin and rescue him?"

Where Is Catkin? is a "seek-and-find story of a cat whose curiosity lands him in a tough spot."

"Mom, what will happen to Catkin?"

In Where Is Catkin? Author Janet Lord has created a charming game of the above, replete with  bold and vibrantly colored illustrations created by her sister, Julie Paschkis, (virtually every page of this charming book is illustrated in a pallet of orange, blue, yellow, green, teal, black, brown and gray, using "patterns and shapes found in nature") which are sure to delight both children and adults alike.

Where Is Catkin? is the perfect book for teachers and parents alike to  engage  children in a discussion asking the questions:  "Where did all of the creatures that Catkin is trying to hunt escape to?" and "Can you find them in this picture?"

Where Is Catkin? is geared towards children ages 2-6 who are sure to enjoy joining Catkin on his cheerily illustrated adventure!

"I loved this book Mom,
will you please read it to me again?"

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Janet Lord earned her B.A. in graphic arts and advertising from Concord University and now works as a graphic designer. She also wrote Here Comes Grandma! and Albert the Fix-It Man, both illustrated by her sister Julie Paschkis. She lives in North Wales, Pennsylvania.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: Julie Paschkis attended Cornell University and the School for American Craftsmen at RIT, where earned a B.F.A. A former elementary school art teacher, Paschkis now works full-time painting, creating, commercial illustrations, and illustrating children's books. Some of her books include Yellow Elephant:A Bright Bestiary; Through Georgia's Eyes; Happy Adoption Day and Albert the Fix-It Man. She lives in Seattle, Washington.

• Hardcover: $16.95
• ISBN: 978-1-56145-523-2
• Total Pages: 32
• Size: 8 1/2 x 11
• Language: English

BOOK REVIEW: "A Cat Like That" Another Winning Book By Author Wendy Wahman

Think about your best friend. What are the qualities you would like your best friend to possess? Wouldn't you like a best friend who understands you? One who knows just the right things to do to keep you smiling? One who understands your mood when you haven't even uttered a word? Someone who respects you and gives you your space when you need it but is there to have fun with you as well? Someone who treats you with consideration? We all would love our best friend to have these qualities.

What does a cat want in a best friend?

Cats want their best friend (YOU) to treat them with consideration, courtesy, thoughtfulness and respect as well.

Wendy Wahman knows what cats want in their best friend and conveys this charmingly through her words and  vibrantly colored, endearing illustrations.



"A Cat Like That" is geared towards children ages 3 to 8, however I have known adults who are so  clueless when it comes to how to relate to a cat, that they certainly would benefit from reading it as well.

 "A Cat Like That" would make a superb bedtime story. The message of how to approach and behave towards a cat is certain to start a dialogue between the child and whomever shares this story with him.  The message of treating an animal (in this case a cat) with respect, thoughtfulness and consideration  won't be lost when the lights are turned out and the child is cozily tucked in their bed, rather, it is a message that will be remembered and hopefully put into practice during childhood and beyond.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: WENDY WAHMAN lives in Washington State with big poodles, old cats and a husband named Joe. She has won many awards for illustration, but her greatest joy is loving the two, three and four-legged animals she has known.  My Sheltie, Dakota, reviewed her first children's book:

 "Don't Lick The Dog, Making Friends With Dogs" on his blog "Dakota's Den" you can read his review of that book right here

You can find Wendy here:

Website: http://www.wendywahman.com

Facebook: 

http://tiny.cc/9m5hu

Macmillan: http://us.macmillan.com/author/wendywahman

I was not compensated in any way for this review. I was given "A Cat Like That" to read and review. All opinions are solely my own.

"Purrsnikitty" A Book for "Cat Lovers Young And Old" By Kathy Brodsky

If you are a teacher or have children,  if you have nieces, nephews, little cousins or grandkids, if you have ever prepared a child to welcome (or not) a new sibling, or introduced a dog into a home with a cat then you will enjoy Purrsnikitty.

The title  is charming. Purrsnikitty  which comes from  a play on the word "persnickety" which means "over particular, fussy, snobbish, having an aloof attitude" (http://www.dictionary.com/),  is also the name of the main character of the book. She embodies all of the previously mentioned characteristics, (as evidenced by the verse below taken from the book) as do most cats.

"I'm a very special cat!

I say that every day-

I love myself so very much

and always get my way!"

Purrsnikitty is the purrfect bedtime book for children. It has adorable illustrations done by Cameron Bennett, is written in rhyme (which children LOVE), it is a quick-read (40 pages, which Moms and Dads love at bedtime!) and in my opinion is ideal for children ages 6 and under.

Sometimes it is hard to know what a child is thinking  about and reading a book together at bedtime (or anytime) is a great way to open up a conversation. One of my favorite portions of the book is in the back where there are conversation starters in the form of questions that an adult may ask a child to further engage them . Examples of these questions are:

"Do you have brothers or sisters?"
"Do you remember how you felt when your brother or sister first came home?"
"Do you have a cat?"
"How did your cat get his or her name?"
"Why is it important to look beyond first impressions?" (which is the message or heart of this book)

Cat Chat is lucky to have had an interview with  Kathy Brodsky (the author) who  is a psychotherapist, author and poet living in New Hampshire. Her first book, Moments in Our Lives, is a collection of vignettes told in verse about life's turning points from birth through old age. With Purrsnikitty, her fourth book, Brodsky was able to combine cat owner’s love of their feline friends with a fundraising contest for animal shelters. She has also published Just Sniffing Around, and My Bent Tree, The Inside Story which the latter two received honorable mentions from The Green Book Festival, 2010.

Now, on to the intervew!


1. Everyone is eager to learn about your new book. Please tell us what it’s all about.

Purrsnikitty is about cats and all of the silly, funny, exasperating things they do. Even if you’re not a cat lover, you’ll have fun reading this book!


2. How did you decide to write for kids? What encouragement helped you along the way?

I’m a psychotherapist, and have been working with people for many years. Even though I see mainly adolescents and adults in my practice, I love kids, taught many to swim, raised two sons of my own, and I love sharing what I know. Children are so receptive to new ideas and are fun to work with. I saw a crooked pine tree and wrote the poem My Bent Tree, which I realized should be a picture book. One thing led to another…and before I knew it, I was writing picture books!
People who have encouraged me are those who read my poems – even before my first book for adults – Moments in Our Lives – was published.

3. How did the idea come about to write a book about cats?

I had written a book about dogs – Just Sniffing Around – and presented this at a women’s group. Following the talk, a woman came up to me and suggested I write a book about cats. I didn’t have a cat, so I looked to my cat-loving friends for suggestions.

4. What responses do you get from kids when you read Purrsnikitty?

Kids and adults love it!


5. What messages do you hope that your readers will take away from this?

In the story, another family member enters the picture. This new addition creates discomfort to our star at first, who then grows to love this new family member. The book’s messages deal with family interaction and tolerance. Also noting how important it is to look beyond first impressions. The questions I always include in the back of all my books present these questions and more, in further depth.


6. What has your illustrator brought to your story? How did you happen to choose Cameron Bennett?

Cameron and I work very closely together to create a complete story. The words and the pictures work together. Cameron is amazing at how he can capture the attitude of each character. We met while I was taking Argentine Tango lessons. Cameron was the tango instructor. Purrsnikitty is our fourth picture book collaboration. The others are My Bent Tree, The Inside Story, Just Sniffing Around – and there will be more. Cameron’s website is http://www.cameronbennettart.com/


7. Your poetry is delightful. Do you write all of your books in rhyme? And why?

Thank you. Yes, all of my books are in rhyming verse. I like that poetry is very succinct. You can say a lot in just a few words. The rhythm of the word and lines are very important to me. I hear the story.


8. We heard that you had a cat contest! Please tell us all about it.

Since I didn’t have a cat, I thought it would be fun to have a cat contest to find our star for Purrsnikitty. I decided that people should send donations to animal shelters, along with their cat photos. We had the contest locally, and we raised almost $700 for animal shelters. It was Win/ Win for our contestants as well as the shelters. We found our winner and three runners-up. The winner is on every page, and the runners-up have a picture on one page of Purrsnikitty.



9. Do you have a website? How can we pick up copies of your books?

My website is http://www.kathybrodsky.com/

My books are available through my website – especially if people would like a signed copy with a personal note in the book. Also, they’re available through Barnes and Noble and Amazon. People can also request them through their local bookseller. They are also distributed by Enfield Books.


Thanks so much Kathy for such a precious book that we wish you lots of luck with and for sitting down and chatting with us today!

Cat Chat wishes you the best!