This 32-page hardcover children's book was written by Leona (Lee) Novy Jackson and illustrated by Kelly Dupre. It is a sweet and simple story about a lost kitten with a curious streak. A mother cat searches for her lost kitten as the restlessness and excitement of the animals in the stable begin to rise. A feeling of expectation and wonder was definitely in the air. By the end of the evening, the Savior is born and angels sing praises. The author reveals the location of the kitten, but you'll have to read the book to find out more.
My First Thoughts
The Christian message is an attempt to speak to our hearts about the real reason we should celebrate Christmas which is the birth of Christ. It helps us recognize that it isn't about gifts, decorations, or any other holiday-related tradition. The story also has an underlying message about how a lost soul can be found through the miraculous events surrounded by the birth of Jesus. It encourages the reader to not give up on the important things in life that you hold dear to your heart. This retelling of the Christmas story brings the stable animals of the night to life. The illustrator brilliantly captured the emotions and feelings of the animals presented in the story with her distinctive and creative illustrations while utilizing a minimal amount of color.
Overall Opinion
The book was delightful. It may not be on my top ten list of books to read every Christmas, but it is still worth reading for entertainment purposes. The unique perspective of the book still reinforces the true meaning of Christmas. It teaches us to spread the good news of hope and peace during the holiday season.
The book is written from a cat's perspective or point of view. I had a difficult time connecting to the story and felt the plot was a little far-fetched or unrealistic at times. There's always the possibility that cats were present that Holy night and the author incorporated the event into the story with her imagination and style.
I really appreciated the description, history, and origin behind several familiar Christmas symbols at the back of the book. The Christmas symbols described in the book consist of the stable, manger, Christmas star, nativity scene, Christmas trees, Christmas lights and candles, holly, candy canes, advent wreath, and gifts. The book also includes an entry about cats which seemed out-of-place amid the more popular Christmas Christian symbols. The cat blurb discusses the importance of keeping long-term commitments when purchasing a kitten. The author also explain the hazards during Christmas time and the precautions you should take if you own a cat. Furthermore, she states the reason why cats purr on Christmas Eve. She even tells the reader that the legend has been passed down throughout many cat families.
Price
Images Unlimited Publishing Books $16.00
Amazon $12.90
Recommendation
I recommend this book for children ages 4-7 years old. It would be a good Christmas gift for ANY cat lover or individual looking to add a unique book to their Christmas collection. Sunday school teachers may want to consider reading aloud "The Littlest Christmas Kitten" to their students. The children may gain a better understanding of the Nativity story from a cat's perspective and I know many children who love cats!
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