When a family decides that “life would be better if we got a cat,” discussions, disagreements, and negotiations ensue. Daddy (brown-skinned) wants an older cat, but daughters Rosie and Tulip (biracial) want a kitten. Mommy (white) is the tiebreaker: “Kitten!” The girls finally agree on a name (Nigel), and then the search for their new pet begins. The first shelter is closed, leading to disappointment. Mommy goes alone to the second shelter, where there are lots of kittens in cages, and also a single carrier with a single cat. “He wasn’t small. In fact, he was almost an older cat. And he wasn’t very cute. He couldn’t be our kitten.” Then she takes him out. All prior family protocols, agreements, and understandings abandoned, she decides he’s the one (of course he is!), and names him Blizzard without consulting anyone. “Rosie loved him at first sight. Tulip loved him, too. There was rejoicing. Even Daddy.” Amusingly realistic and highly entertaining family dynamics play out in a skillfully droll narrative that hums with excitement, anticipation, disappointment, and delight. The story is paired with art in a subdued palette that mines each moment of humor and warmth and wonderfully extends the fun. (Ages 3-8)

When a cat-loving family decides to bring home a pet, their quest reveals the highs and lows of everyday family life in this heartwarming story—perfect for kitten lovers and everyone who’s ever longed for a pet.

Finally, it's time for this family to adopt a pet of their own! But big decisions remain to be made. The two children, Tulip and Rosie, definitely want a kitten. But Daddy insists an older cat is best. No one can agree about what name to give the new family member, either. When Mommy and Rosie visit a shelter to choose their pet, yet another problem arises and they must go home empty-handed. This deftly paced story from best-selling author Emily Jenkins—winsomely narrated by Mommy, who just wants to find peaceful solutions—highlights themes of finding family unity among realistic conflict and overcoming disappointment. Readers will rejoice along with the family as, finally, they welcome home their very own, absolutely wonderful kitten.