Lori Hoffman Penna

Catawampus was born with his front legs bent, so he stands on two feet. He lives all alone on the street, but he longs for a family of his own. One day, Catawampus is caught and taken to a cat shelter. The other cats at the shelter are mean, they laugh at his legs and tease him.  So, Catawampus has an idea. He attempts to change his appearance, and disguise his bent legs. He thinks this will give him the best chance of being picked by a human and taken home. But his plan fails, and he starts to believe he will never find a new home. Then, a man sweeping up the trash at the shelter notices Catawampus. The man is old, grey and walks with a limp. He recognises himself in the cat and knows he just needs a friend. Will Catawampus ever leave the shelter? And will he ever find his forever home?

Catawampus: The Story of a Crooked Cat is an illustrated picture book by author Lori Hoffman Penna about a stray cat with a physical difference, who unexpectedly finds himself in a cat shelter. The other cats are mean, and no-one wants to adopt a cat with crooked legs, but Catawampus is determined to find a new home. This is a heart-warming story about a beautiful, strong and determined cat. Just when he is about to give up hope, he meets a man who gives him the forever home he has been dreaming of. The book is a celebration of difference and diversity, and teaches young children the importance of acceptance, kindness, compassion and inclusion.

A must read for children who love animals, and for anyone who has ever felt a little bit out of place.

Star rating: 5 Stars

Summary: A powerful and uplifting tale about a very special cat, and his journey from the streets to finding his forever home.