Garret Freymann-Weyr

This story, told from a cat's point of view, made me alternately weep and laugh. Harvey lives in the city with all its dangers and constant fights for food and safety. Harvey finds his safe place on the roof atop an apartment building, which happens to be the home of the "bakery lady" aka Danielle who has been feeding him. Harvey has his own list of "impossible things" to do, one of which is becoming a brave city cat. Throughout his many adventures, Harvey avoids living indoors, until circumstances lead him to his "adoption" and learning to live as an indoor cat. This wee feline fellow is certainly a brave and helpful one, as he navigates his new life, learns to love and trust, and achieves his list of "impossible things."

While this was no doubt intended to be a book for children, as a cat lover I loved this book! The black and white line drawings perfectly capture Harvey and his world. This is a book meant to be loved and shared and read over and over. Older kids who are accomplished readers will enjoy reading this book themselves, while younger ones and their parents or caregivers can enjoy this book together. The story also helps kids learn about how to properly care for animals and appreciate them as fellow creatures. Bravo, Harvey!

I received this book from the publisher and from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.… (more)

Harvey is a city cat struggling to stay alive. He’s not the most courageous cat, which in the world of feral animals can be a danger. When the woman in the blue shirt “adopts” him and lets him live on the roof of her apartment building he learns kindness is as important as courage. He likes having someone to depend on. As Harvey tells his story, he introduces the reader to the friends he has. The three sparrows and Chester, the dog, with his wise advice are true friends. This is a solid beginning chapter book that would provide a great prompt for writing a story from a single point of view.… (more)