If you pay attention when you go outside, you’ll notice squirrels scampering across the grass and finding shelter in the trees. But have you ever stopped to feed them? To gain their trust and become friends?
In Hat Cat by Troy Wilson, Grandpa goes out to feed the squirrels all the time, setting peanuts on his hat and waiting for the woodland creatures to approach him. But one day, he finds a kitten under his hat and names it… Hat! The antics of the adorable little kitten and the serenity of the old man balance out the touching story. Author Troy Wilson writes about this loving duo to honour the memory of his own grandfather, Tom Richmond. Honestly, I teared up a little while reading this heartwarming tale!
Wilson doesn’t need many words to tell the story, not only because he cleverly says a lot by saying a little, but mainly because the illustrations by Eve Coy express so much. The illustrator’s beautiful watercolour images give off a sense of tranquility all while bringing to life the love between and old man and his animal friends—this tale of patience, family, and kindness is the perfect bedtime story for children 3 to 6.
This 2022 release is Wilson’s 9th book, and certainly not his last. You can pick up a copy of Hat Cat through Wilson’s website which links to the book’s retailers.
