That Cat Can't Stay
What’s inside...
Narrated by a cat-loving little girl, this story is a hysterical romp through a family's pet adoption dilemma. Poor Dad does not like cats, and he voices his opposition to the steady stream of stray cats that always seem to wind up on his doorstep—thanks to a cat-loving Mom who wants to save every stray she finds. In an effort to win Dad over, the little girl hides a tiny stray kitten in her hood and convinces Dad to just give it one small squeeze. Dad manages, with trepidation, to stick out his pinkie and pet the creature. But now that five cats have taken over his favorite chair, he becomes desperate and makes a visit to the pound. Dad returns happily with a big, fat puppy—everyone gets something that they want. With hilarious ink and watercolor illustrations, this picture book demonstrates the resourcefulness, love, and compromises of a pet-loving family.
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dad
Mom
Discussion points
Why do you think the mom keeps saying the cat can't stay, but the dad brings more cats?
How do you think each new cat changed the family's life?
What feelings do you think the mom had each time a new cat arrived?
Which cat's story did you enjoy the most and why?
If you were in this family, would you want to keep the cats? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think the book might be about based on the title and cover.
Pause after each new cat is introduced and ask your child how they think the story will change.
After reading, discuss the different personalities and traits of each cat and relate them to people they might know.
Encourage your child to express whether they agree or disagree with the decisions made by the characters and why.
Use the diverse situations in the book to discuss the importance of family, compromise, and unexpected joys.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'That Cat Can't Stay,' children see how the family takes in stray cats despite the father's initial reluctance, demonstrating kindness and care.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of empathy by helping others and animals in need, fostering a compassionate outlook towards those around them.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The recurring theme of the father adjusting to the cats teaches adaptability and acceptance of change.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to be open to changes in their environment, thereby easing transitions and new experiences.
Example Lesson: Resolving Conflicts
Explanation: The story illustrates negotiation within the family when deciding to keep the cats, showcasing peaceful conflict resolution.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills to solve disputes with siblings or peers constructively and calmly.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Taking care of pets is a recurring task in the book, highlighting the responsibilities that come with pet ownership.
Real-World Application: This story helps children understand the daily responsibilities and commitment required to take care of others, promoting a sense of duty.
Example Lesson: Family Dynamics
Explanation: Despite differing opinions, the family works together and finds joy in their new pets, reinforcing the value of family unity.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value family bonds and work together to overcome challenges and make joint decisions.