Published by Simon and Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books

Summary:  When Ethan and his big brother Sam discover three stray cats on their way to school, Ethan wonders if they could take them home.  “You know Dad said no pets,” Sam reminds him.  Ethan worries about the cats when the weather gets colder, despite the research Sam helps him do about how strays survive.  When the boys see a sign advertising a Trap-Neuter-Return campaign, they visit the animal clinic to learn what to do.  Not only do they trap the cats and take them to the clinic to be neutered, but Sam gets three outdoor cat shelters.  When the time comes to return the cats to their street, one of them seems to want to stay with the kids.  They decide to take her home to ask their dad, and the last page shows Dusty and Ethan curled up together on his bed. Includes an author’s note with additional information about strays and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). 32 pages; ages 4-8.

Pros:  Ethan is a kind-hearted protagonist who finds a way to make a difference in his community and gets a cute pet in the process.  The information about TNR is woven into the story without coming across as preachy, and the illustrations will make readers take Ethan, Sam, and the cats to heart.

Cons:  It seemed like a bit more adult supervision was warranted.