Cat Problems; Jory John, illustrated by Lane Smith

Life is hard as a cat and one little moggie is really not happy. Despite being a pampered house cat, there is lots to complain about. The sun won’t stop moving, the food is not up to standard, someone keeps stealing his spot, there’s not much to do and a terrible monster makes the most horrific noise. And don’t get him started on the nosy squirrel outside the window. Will anything cheer up this crabby cat…

I’m sure we’ve all thought at some point that could life be better and this funny insight on life from a cat’s point of view is paw-some fun. Over the course of a day, the witty and sarcastic narrator bemoans a life that is far from purr-fect, in fact you might say it is a cat-astrophe.

Full of cat-titude, Jory John and Lane Smith nail a cat’s life and cat owners will smile knowingly at all of the perceived problems the moaning moggy has grievances with. John’s humorous text coupled with Smith’s expressive illustrations that perfectly capture the highs and mostly lows of the cat’s day guarantee giggles.

My favourite part, the wise squirrel with some very valuable life advice who implores the whining cat to embrace what it has, be thankful for it and to get on with life for things could be a whole lot worse - an important message for all. Squirrel hides nuts that it won’t be able to find, has to avoid getting eaten and would much prefer the boring indoor life. Cat, not one for life advice, very much sees Squirrel as a tasty meal…if only he could open the window - just another thing to moan about.

Will be a hit with lovers of funny books and cats.

With huge thanks to Walker Books for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.

Recommended for 4+.