"But after a full day of sniffing and searching,
she didn't see any of her friends, and there was
no food to be found.
By the time the stars rose,
she hung her little head
and wished life was like it was before."
This beautiful story was inspired by Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, 'The Cat Man of Aleppo'. I have mentioned him in a previous post.
It tells the tale of a tiny cat living in Aleppo, Syria. She plays with other cats, basks in sunshine and is properly fed. When civil war does horrific damage to the city, she can no longer find her friends, food, or refuge. She is frightened by the loud boots of humans who tramp through the streets. She hides in old boxes, stays in the shadows and is overwhelmed by constant hunger.
"Until one day, she noticed a different human.
This one didn't make bangs and crashes.
This human had a gentle voice and spoke kind words.
Buoyed by his kindness, she follows him. His journey leads to an oasis in the middle of the war-torn city. There, she finds other cats, food, a peaceful place, and eventually the kindness of this stranger. It doesn't take long until she is feeling right at home. When she sees a lonely and scared little boy, she knows exactly what he needs and what to do.
Sensitive, gentle artwork by Laura Chamberlain provides a clear setting and enriches the meaning of this story.
An author's note is inspirational:
"This story is for the millions of children and animals
affected by wars, every year, all over the world. After
working to help war victims and visiting refugee camps,
I saw for myself how homes and loved ones are lost, but
hope never is. A little kindness goes a long way."
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