Dick Whittington and his Cat
By Marcia Brown
The Story
A penniless orphan boy travels to London hoping to find his fortune, and it's his clever cat's rat-catching skill that changes both their lives forever.
Why It's Special
For the kid who roots for the underdog and believes something small can turn everything around, this old English legend still lands.
- Big idea: Fortune can turn on the smallest, most unexpected companion — kindness and luck reward those who keep going.
- Vibes: old-fashioned, hopeful, storybook-solemn with a rags-to-riches glow
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy classic rags-to-riches tales
- like stories with a loyal animal companion
- are curious about life in old London
- respond well to folktales with a satisfying turn of fortune
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What problem was Dick facing when he first arrived in London with nothing?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Dick felt when he had to trade away his cat?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever had to give up something you loved, hoping for something good to come of it?
- Imagination: If your pet had one special skill like Dick's cat, what would it be?
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think the cat's ability to catch rats turned out to be so valuable?
