An interview with artist Cat Rabbit on her picture books for quiet kids

"I hope they speak to children who are a little less exuberant, a bit more reserved, and support them in finding their feet (and some friends)."

This week I’m releasing a bonus free edition of the newsletter, because I’m taking a couple of weeks off, and just had to get this one out there before I go!

I have written about Cat Rabbit’s brilliant new book, The Library of Bears, a couple of times already, and it turns out she’s a friend of a friend, so I asked her to have a chat for the newsletter. We spoke about her journey into the world of children’s books, her creative process, and how her stories could be used to encourage kids to get crafty using items they’re already familiar with, as well as to be brave and show kindness. Win, win!

Cat’s books are particularly well-suited to little ones in need of some gentle guidance when it comes to speaking up, trying new things, or making friends. They could be used to spark honest conversations in ELC or early primary school classrooms about belonging, sharing, and friendship. (There are some discussion questions provided by the publisher here and here.)

And alongside those worthwhile …