Negative Cat

Picture book, 32 pages. Published by Nancy Paulsen Books in 2021.

Recap & Review

Everyone in the boy's family gives up on Max - an extremely grumpy feline - expect the boy who tries everything to turn Max into a friendly cat, even reading to him.

Based on a true story, A Negative Cat is a humorously heartwarming story that encourages us to consider the well-being of animals.

Parents' Simplicity Credo:
Respect Animals

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Learning Suggestions

Family Read Aloud Time
The Boss thinks this is a sweet story and valiantly offered a few journalistic-styled headlines for today's post -- but the title really says it all. This story appeals to the kiddo who wants to help everyone be better "people."

Learning at Home
Learning to Give has an excellent 3-lesson Pet Care & Safety Unit which begins with respect for animals and is adaptable for use by home-school families. The service learning activity builds on Blackall's animal welfare focus in Negative Cat.

Classroom Options
Negative Cat is an excellent addition to a classroom library. Unfortunately, there are no prepared lesson plans online as of this post -- you could check out your local animal shelter's website to see if they offer opportunities to read to the animals.

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Sophie Blackall

Blackall has illustrated more than 30 children's books including Finding Winnie for which she was awarded the Caldecott Medal. She illustrates grown-up books, cards and games and works with UNICEF and Save the Children, UK on global health and literacy initiatives.

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