"This story is not about the
dog's people who listened,
or the dog who stopped
when it heard the kitten,
hungry and dirty,
scared and alone,
meowing sadly,
needing a home."
Readers are told from the beginning that this book is NOT about a kitten; yet, that tiny kitten figures into every new scenario shared in its rhythmic cumulative words. As a woman walks her dog, she is dragged toward a parked car that is providing protection for a tiny, black feline. The dog's family hears the commotion and is quick to have a friend calm the dog, while the two of them check on the dirty, hungry kitten shivering with fear beneath the car.
Each additional concerned citizen who offers help for its plight adds to the wonderful show of community spirit, all focused on a tiny cat with no home, and needing their support. The story spreads, bringing more and more offers from the surrounding neighborhood. All work together for the greater good. With warm voices and careful persuasion, the kitten is finally captured. She is fierce and very frightened ... until settled in a box with a bowl of milk and finally, comforting arms filled with love to hold her.
"This story is about the
stopping
and listening,
the holding
and bringing,
the offering
and asking
and working together
it takes, sometimes, to get there."
What a warm and uplifting read aloud story this is for young children. The repetitive text, the diverse community, the care and concern shown for one tiny critter is the true meaning of community. Isn't that what we all could use more of right now?
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