March/April 2024 Kids’ Indie Next Picture Book Pick 

There is a cat. A cat that couldn’t be bothered to do anything … anything at all. His friends ask him if he wants to play but he doesn’t feel like it. They invite him on adventures to far-off places, but he would rather stay at home. Until one day, a friend asks how he is doing, and the true reason why he’d rather do nothing is revealed. He is feeling sad.
 
This is a story about feelings, friendship and the importance of speaking to someone when you don’t feel right. This beautiful socially aware story:

• Reassures kids that feeling sad sometimes is normal
• Helps them understand others’ behaviour and promotes empathy
• Encourages them to be more in touch with their feelings
• Provides a sense of fun while also broaching a tricky topic

Both children and adults will love the quirky and hilarious cat’s refusal to take part in anything and the sweet and important message behind this story.
It’s never been more important to introduce kids to the importance of mental health. This bright children’s book is an easy way to talk about feelings and looking out for others. It provides an excellent jumping-off point for at-home and classroom discussions about emotional wellbeing and caring for others.

""A group of cats realise their friend is sad when he won’t join their games. A sweet and funny reminder about the importance of sharing our feelings.”" - The Bookseller

"‘An expressive picture book with comical images and a wry approach to cats that gives children permission to be sad and shows how to be a supportive friend.’" - The Sunday Times

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"...convey[s] the message that sometimes the best thing you can do for friends is simply to sit with them."

"A “gentle and funny picture book for young children.”" - JUNO Magazine

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“A sweet reminder that being honest about your feelings yields kindness and understanding”

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“Several picture books address sadness, few do it with as much humour or as effectively as Jack Kurland in his debut.”

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STAR Book - "Gorgeous, funny picture book with an important life message"

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“This bright children’s book is an easy way to talk about feelings and looking out for others. It provides an excellent jumping-off point for at-home and classroom discussions about emotional wellbeing and caring for others.”