By: Karyn Connors
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The day that I met Kitty
I knew she was my human
Kitty needed me, even if she didn’t know it yet!
Kitty and I tells the story of the special bond that develops between a human and their assistance dog. Children and adults can share in this beautiful tale of Kitty and Raffy’s journey from their very first meeting through to their becoming a team. Their heart-warming story also unfolds visually in the form of vibrant and unique illustrations that bring to life their journey together.
Karyn has worked in the field of early childhood education her entire career. She is a business owner of a children’s centre and training organisation. Her affinity for children is evident in her first book, and she is looking forward to writing and illustrating further stories of her and her assistance dogs’ adventures.
Kitty and I is a children's book, written and illustrated by Karyn Connors. This is the story of a human, Kitty, meeting her assistance dog, Raffy. It shows the day they first meet. It shows the special bond they develop. It shows the things they do together. It also explains why Kitty needs an assistance dog. It details the training Raffy must complete for this role. Most importantly, it shows how much they love being together.
Kitty and I is written from the dog's point of view. This is a great twist on a classic love story about the bond between a human and her dog. The book teaches children about assistance dogs, including why a human might need one. It details the training required. It also discusses the symptoms of anxiety in humans. Thus, in addition to being fun and entertaining, this book has educational value.
Kitty and I is filled with colourful and innovative illustrations. Children will love the fact that the pages are completely covered with pictures, with the text laid over the top. The illustrations combine painted elements with occasional photographs. On one page, Kitty's body is a photograph; only her head is illustrated. On another, one of Kitty's hands is the only photographic element. Though it is unusual, this mix of styles works. It also provides a point of difference from other children's books.
As for negatives, I found only two minor errors in the book's text, both in the same sentence. Also, Raffy's name is not mentioned in the story, only in the blurb at the end. However, it could be argued that the dog does not know or understand his name, which is why he never mentions it.
Kitty and I is a fantastic children's book. Connors has created something for kids that is bright, fun, and informative. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. I would recommend it to the parents of young children, particularly those who love dogs. Given its educational value, it should suit kids up to 10 years old.
This book will jump of the shelf naturally due to its bright and unique artwork. Each page is a captivating montague of colour and art created by Kitty's vivid and creative imagination.The story is also a masterpiece in its own right. It beautifly captures the amazing bond between an assistant dog and it's 'human'. It warmly promotes inclusion and diversity and will help people with anxiety and/or assistance dogs to feel represented and understood. A must read for adults and children alike.
Watching Kitty create her art is a privilege. Watching Raffy play with toys and enjoy the zoomies when not working is fun but seeing this much needed book evolve has been a privilege. The stunning art and moving story behind this book means it belongs on every bookshelf. We need to normalise conversations that discuss anxiety and mental health the way we do other health issues. Well done Kitty and Raffy, I look forward to seeing further adventures published.
What a gorgeous story and beautifully illustrated book for educating children about the relationship between a support dog and their person.
Reading this beautifully written story in an early childhood setting has been delightful.
The educators and children become emersed in discussing and investigating the stunning artwork throughout and opening up discussions about the importance of support dogs and the way we can use different strategies to feel comfortable in places we may have previously felt anxious.
A must-read!
Amazing! What a fabulous story, one that describes this precious relationship so well. I shed a tear as I read and felt it represented my own experience with my assistance dog. The book is an excellent conversation starter with children, providing an opportunity to discuss topics such as emotions, fears, anxiety, resilience, disability, ability, and approach assistance dogs and pet dogs. Love it!
