The Girl with the Cat

When Caroline and her brother discover a local art gallery, a bronze statue of a little girl in a rocking chair grabs her attention. Caroline reaches out and touches the girl, Nina, and her cat, Sammy, who rests upon her lap. They remind her of the things she left behind in Toronto: a cat of her own and friends she adores. With each visit, she shares a little more of herself. The hole in her heart begins to mend. Then, one day, she finds a sign beside Nina and Sammy stating they will soon be gone. Devastated, she writes a letter to the director, hoping the small amount of savings she encloses will make a difference. Her efforts go public, and with the help of the community, the statue is purchased and will remain a fixture in the gallery for years to come.

This is a poignant story about a child who feels vulnerable and alone after leaving a place she deeply loves. With no friends to comfort her, she finds solace in the time she spends with Nina and Sammy. Her passion leads others to contribute, and her dream of keeping them near becomes a reality. Caroline’s legacy is real, and the statue she fought so hard to keep remains in the gallery today.

This is undoubtedly a noteworthy book of magnificent quality. It’s full of rich, figurative language and sends a powerful message to young children. They’ll be touched by its sweetness and will favor the detailed, soft-hued illustrations that bring the narrative to life.