The Girl and the Rescue Cat

Mia looks forward to her Saturday visits to Friends Animal Shelter, a small building with a red door where dogs bark and cats meow. One day she spots a thin dark-grey cat named Pepper, who has white paws, big amber eyes and one slightly bent ear. Mrs. Lopez explains that Pepper is so shy he hides from everyone who comes to see him. Instead of reaching for the frightened cat, Mia sits on the floor a few feet away, takes out her notebook and starts to draw.

She returns to the same spot day after day, drawing cats and humming quiet tunes, never grabbing or chasing. Pepper slowly grows curious, and the story follows this gentle, patient friendship as the little cat dares to creep closer, step by jingling step. Written by Jane MEADOW, the tale shows young readers that trust cannot be rushed, and that quiet patience and respect for an animal's fear can achieve what grabbing never could. It suits children beginning to read longer stories, and anyone who enjoys warm tales about shelters and shy cats. The tale can be read on Kids Tale Book.