Review of A cat called Harvey

[Robert Atunda]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A cat called Harvey" by Vanessa adelaide.]

---

4 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

“A Cat Called Harvey," co-authored by Vanessa Adelaide and Carolyn McIver, and illustrated by Alan Cottam, is a compelling children’s book that delves into the sensitive subject of parental illness, specifically cancer. This illustrated book offers a heartwarming yet realistic portrayal of the emotional and physical challenges faced by children when a parent is diagnosed with a serious illness.

The story revolves around Harvey, a cat characterized by his confident and rebellious spirit. Harvey enjoys exploring the world beyond his home, which reflects his desire for freedom and social interaction. This adventurous streak, however, leads to a significant incident where Harvey loses one of his legs. This turning point in the story is a powerful metaphor for the unforeseen consequences of ignoring safety guidelines, a lesson imparted subtly yet effectively to young readers.

Unconditional Love: Harvey’s journey underscores the importance of unconditional love, particularly during difficult times. This theme resonates deeply with children who may be experiencing similar struggles in their own lives.
Boundaries and Safety: The story highlights the necessity of adhering to boundaries for personal safety. Harvey’s misadventures and subsequent injury serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of following rules set by caregivers.
Resilience and Adaptation: Harvey’s process of adjusting to life with a disability teaches children about resilience and the ability to adapt to new circumstances. This theme is crucial for helping children understand that challenges can be overcome with the right support and mindset.
Alan Cottam’s illustrations are a significant strength of this book. The visual elements vividly capture Harvey’s adventures, the emotional turmoil, and the process of recovery. The illustrations not only enhance the storytelling but also engage young readers, making complex emotions more accessible and relatable.

“A Cat Called Harvey” stands out for its educational and therapeutic value. The book provides a gentle introduction to serious topics such as illness and injury, helping children process and understand their emotions. It serves as a useful tool for parents and caregivers to discuss these difficult issues with children in a supportive and age-appropriate manner.

Positive Aspects

Real-Life Relevance: The book is inspired by true events, adding authenticity and relevance to the narrative. This connection to real-life experiences helps children relate to the story on a personal level.
Emotional Depth: The emotional journey of Harvey, from his carefree adventures to his struggles and eventual adaptation, is portrayed with sensitivity and depth. This emotional richness makes the story more impactful and meaningful for young readers.
Life Lessons: The book effectively imparts important life lessons about love, safety, and resilience. These lessons are conveyed in a way that is easy for children to understand and internalize.

Negative Aspects

Sensitivity of the Topic: The themes of illness and injury might be distressing for some children. While the book handles these topics sensitively, it is important for parents and caregivers to provide support and guidance when discussing the story.
Complexity for Younger Readers: Some aspects of the story, particularly the emotional and psychological implications of Harvey’s injury, might be challenging for very young readers to fully comprehend without adult assistance.

“A Cat Called Harvey” is highly recommended for children who have a parent or family member diagnosed with a serious illness. It provides a relatable and comforting narrative that can help them navigate their emotions. Parents and caregivers will find the book a valuable tool for initiating conversations about illness and its impact. Educators and child therapists can also use the book as part of their resources to support children facing similar challenges.

Based on its emotional depth, educational value, and beautiful illustrations, I would rate “A Cat Called Harvey” 4 out of 5 stars. The book excels in providing a heartfelt and realistic portrayal of coping with a parent’s illness, offering both comfort and valuable life lessons to its readers. However, the sensitivity of the topic and the potential complexity for very young readers slightly affect its accessibility, which is why it does not achieve a perfect score.

In conclusion, “A Cat Called Harvey” is a unique and valuable addition to children’s literature, addressing a challenging subject with compassion and care. Its blend of storytelling, emotional support, and educational content makes it a standout book for children and families dealing with serious health issues. This book is exceptionally well-edited with no grammatical errors or typos that may detract from the overall reading experience.

******
A cat called Harvey
View: on Bookshelves

[Idris Alooma]

Aye, I've read this review on "A Cat Called Harvey" and I must say, it sounds like a right good read, especially for youngins dealing with a parent's illness. The book tackles real-life challenges with sensitivity and teaches important lessons about love, safety, and adaptin'. The illustrations are said to be top-notch, bringin' the story to life for the little ones. Though the topic can be sensitive, it's an opportunity for parents to discuss these tough subjects with their young'uns. I give it a solid 4 outta 5 stars. Intriguing mystery, kept me guessing until the end.

[Sandre Lamar]

"A Cat Called Harvey" is a heartwarming tale that beautifully teaches children about resilience, love, and overcoming challenges. I Highly recommend this book for its emotional depth and educational value.