August 2013, Michael O'Mara Books, 233 pages, Hardback, Review copy
Themes: selective
mutism, autism, seeking diagnosis then gaining help with treatment, family
life, pet cat, school life, social situations,
Content: Humour,
tissues needed
Summary from Moms Books
Lorcan Dillon was seven years old when his mother, Jayne, first heard
him say 'I love you.' The words were not directed at her, but at
Jessi-cat, the family pet. Lorcan suffers from autism and selective
mutism, a condition that renders him unable to speak in certain
situations, unable to express emotions or enjoy hugs and he has never
told anyone he loves them. This all began to change with the arrival of a
kitten named Jessi-cat.
Jessi-cat is the stirring tale of how the affection and attention
of a constant loving companion allowed a little boy to start to connect
to the world around him. Lorcan spends hours playing with her, cuddling
her and telling her how much he loves her. He has also begun opening up
to others, making friends at school and is constantly making progress.
Jessi-cat proved so inspiring that she was named Best Friend and
National Cat of the Year 2012 by the Cats Protection Awards. This book
charts the story of this great friendship and how the love between a
young boy and his pet has changed his life forever.
Nayuleska's thoughts
The
other night my family watched a cat documentary while I was gaming and
listening to an audio book.
I
peeked every now and then when family went aww. My ears pricked up when I heard
the name Jessi-cat, then I watched in fascination as I saw Lorcan with
Jessi-Cat. Having finished reading the book the previous day I was delighted to
see the pair in action.
I
firmly believe pets are vital for emotional well being, especially if the
owner-like Lorcan-has health issues. I wept as I read the social progress
Lorcan made from his special bond with Jessi-Cat, laughed when they got into
trouble together (not often), grr-ed when Lorcan's mother struggled to get the
professional help for Lorcan, and grinned like a maniac when Lorcan's
friends/brothers helped him through interactions with others. Like my own cat
Belle who sticks with me when I'm ill Jessi-Cat can found wherever Lorcan is-as
some of the photos in the book show that includes on a trampoline! I hope for
Lorcan's sake Jessi-cat lives a long life, and continues to enrich his life
through their special bond.
Suggested
read
For
another special bond between a cat and a girl, this time fictional, try City Farm: Laura and Silky by Jessie Williams (Children's, 9 years +, 10E/10E)
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