April's Kittens
By Clare Turlay Newberry
The Story
A girl's cat Sheba has three kittens, but her father says their one-cat apartment can't keep them all — so April must find a way to save the family she loves.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's ever begged to keep just one more pet, April's tug-of-war between love and limits will feel painfully, wonderfully familiar.
- Big idea: Growing up sometimes means finding a creative solution instead of just losing what you love.
- Vibes: Tender, quiet, and true to the small, real dilemmas of childhood.
Perfect For Kids Who
- love stories about cats and kittens
- are working on accepting hard decisions and compromise
- respond well to gentle, realistic storytelling over fantasy
- enjoy detailed, lifelike illustrations of animals
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What do you think April could do to keep all of Sheba's kittens?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think April felt when her father said they could only keep one cat?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever had to give something up that you loved? How did you decide?
- Imagination: If you were April, which kitten — Charcoal, Butch, or Brenda — would be hardest to give up, and why?
- Character study: Why do you think April's father insisted on a one-cat household?
