Official Review: Shadow's Adventure Home by Kathy Kovar

[Abigail Ekwetafia]

Wow! I must say I'm very much excited to get this book for my nephews. This review captured my interest, and I believe we're going to have a good time reading about this adventure

[Joy Okorie 1]

This is an awesome and educational book for children. The author really captures the essence of cats. It really looks like a wonderful read.. Thanks for the review.

[Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis]

Great review! I am a cat person too. I have two Tabbies. One got out a few times, but he always found his way back. This sounds like a cute book that I will read to my grandchildren.

[Naomi Rebecca 1]

What a heartfelt review! Shadow's journey sounds both adventurous and emotional, especially knowing it’s based on a true story. The balance of vivid illustrations and simple vocabulary seems perfect for engaging young readers. I love that the book sets a high standard in editing. Shadow truly feels like a character you'd want to cuddle and cheer for.

[Anu Anand]

This sounds like a heartwarming story that kids can relate to, especially those who have loved and lost a pet. It seems perfect for helping young readers understand emotions like curiosity, fear, and hope. Congrats on BOTD!

[Chi Chiu Michael Mak]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Shadow's Adventure Home" by Kathy Kovar.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Shadow is a cat who loves his human family. He also loves watching birds from the windows. Then, he and his family move to a house out in the country with bigger windows! One day, one of his humans leaves the door open, and Shadow knows this is his chance to finally catch those birds he has been staring at for so long. Shadow pounces, runs, and climbs. When Shadow is finally ready to head back home, he’s come so far that he doesn’t know which way home is. Will Shadow ever find his family again?

Shadow’s Adventure Home is written by Kathy Kovar and illustrated by Mardel Rubio. This children’s book is based on the true story of the author’s own cat who went missing for two years. The story is told from Shadow’s perspective in the third-person point of view.

Being a cat person, I loved that the story centers around a cat. The author brought Shadow to life. I could picture Shadow stalking his prey. I was sad when Shadow got lost. Children will easily be able to relate to Shadow.

Another great aspect of the book was the drawings. They look like they are done with colored pencils. The characters look realistic without being over-animated. They are colorful enough to capture a young child’s attention. My favorite picture was one of Shadow hiding under the bed. There are a few more drawings than pages with words, which would be perfect for a younger audience.

The vocabulary is simple; I found no hard words. The only problem I could see is that some of the pages had too many words. While children in kindergarten would enjoy the story, I don’t think they would be able to read that many words on their own. However, it would make a great story to read aloud as a class or in a family.

The book was also exceptionally edited. I found no errors within its pages. I especially appreciate this in a children’s book because they haven’t learned many of the rules yet. It’s nice to set a good example for them to follow.

All in all, I found myself getting attached to Shadow as if he was my own cat. I appreciated the editing, and I loved looking at the pictures. For those reasons, I rate Shadow’s Adventure Home 4 out of 4 stars. I recommend it for any elementary-age children; the younger ones might need an adult to read it aloud to them, though.

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Shadow's Adventure Home
View: on Bookshelves

What a heartwarming children's story! I like the coloured pencil-style illustrations of Shadow's Adventure Home. I'm curious whether cats in real life chase birds like Shadow does!

[Stephanie Gail Stephen]

As a fellow cat lover, I find this review incredibly compelling. Shadow seems like a cat I would cherish—curious, bold, and full of personality. The description of the emotional journey and illustrations captures my interest. It’s great to know that the story is engaging and well-edited for young readers. I cannot wait to read it and share it with the little ones in my life. Shadow’s story promises to be a wonderful blend of adventure and love.

[Seetha E]

I can relate to the story of Shadow, as I once had a cat who went missing too. It’s a heart-wrenching experience that many readers will understand. The illustrations are beautifully subtle, adding to its appeal among the young audience. I believe the kids will find comfort and joy in following Shadow’s adventures. Thank you for your great review!

[greeneyedgirl27]

"Shadow's Adventure Home" by Kathy Kovar follows the journey of Shadow, a adorable cat that wanders too far from home. A wonderful adventure follows for Shadow to get back home. This children's book is beautifully illustrated and well written. Based on the authors own cat it is sure to appeal to animal lovers and children. Great review and BOTD.

[Kibet Hillary]

I can, indeed, confirm and support your statement that the illustrations are amazing; I have just read the book sample on kindle and I liked the illustrations. What is even more important is that it appears the book has some valuable lessons as well. The review is informative; thank you, @kandscreeley.

[Gabriela Contreras Gonzalez]

Shadow's Adventure Home is a lovely children's book that follows Shadow, a cat who has always loved bird watching. One day, Shadow has the opportunity to not only watch the birds from his window, but to chase them and maybe catch them. I have never been a cat person, but I love books that have animals as the protagonist. I just hope that Shadow can return home, because no animal should get lost.

[Judy Burr]

Thank you for the review. I read the sample. This is a child's book about a cat and its adventure. This book can initiate conversations about pet care and sadly talk about grief in times of pet loss. Lovely drawings and a photograph of the author's cat to enjoy.

[Sarah Zain]

This is a wonderful and detailed review. The review effectively highlights the book's strengths.
The book appears to be a delightful and emotionally resonant children's book. And seems to excel in its ability to connect with young readers with vivid illustrations that bring the adventures to life. Congrats on BOTD

[Jennifer Wilson 95]

"Shadow's Adventure Home" has wonderful illustrations. The colors are soft and there are beautiful details and shading. My favorite picture is one of Shadow watching birds through the window. The story follows a cat who got out and got lost, but we have a happy ending when he completes his adventure and finds his way home again. It would be a great book for a family read aloud or a preschool reading time.

[Rupali Mishra]

Congrats on BOTD!
Inspired by an actual event, Kathy Kovar's "Shadow’s Adventure Home" is a charming book for kids about bravery, interest, and the return trip to family. When Shadow the cat eventually pursues his desire, he gets lost on his path back.