Not only does this book teach kids they can also own a pet like Lola, but it also teaches them about responsibility, feelings, adjusting to change, adoption, giving, love and family. But most importantly, it allows little girls and boys to see themselves reflected in a book surrounded by a loving and supportive family. A great addition to Lola series and a treasure that is sure to be enjoyed again and again. – Here Wee Read The most realistic and thoughtful pet adoption picture book I've ever read! |
What people are saying. . .
Lulu never fails to delight: this new story, ticks all the boxes for showing the very young that becoming a pet owner involves considerable responsibility, as well as introducing the basics of adopting a cat. This is such a fantastic book! It really does cover the basis of adopting a cat and home important it is to let it settle in. McQuinn has a real talent for creating stories that deal with childhood's important rights of passage ans pitching them perfectly for the audiences. – Library Mice 
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Kirkus Reviews
McQuinn and Beardshaw’s adorable, black preschool heroine, Lola, is back for another turn. Many readers will surely appreciate the plot line of shelter-animal pet adoption... Throughout, Beardshaw’s signature bright acrylic illustrations with soft edges pop with youthful exuberance. Details such as Lola’s simple care chart may even serve as inspiration for other young aspiring pet owners. The simple text makes this a suitable story for sharing one-on-one or in a small group or for beginning readers to pursue independently. This sweet story of first-time pet ownership is sure to appeal to young animal lovers of all kinds and especially to feline fanciers. (Picture book. 3-5) School Library Journal This isn't just a sweet story about a little girl working hard to get a pet. It's also about responsibility. Lola learns how to make the best life for the cat she will bring home. Children can see how gentle she is with her timid kitten, Makeda. She's attentive and patient when she brings her pet home, and she takes good care of Makeda by feeding, caring for, and loving her. Lola is a cute and lovable character to whom children can relate. The illustrations are large and vibrant. The text is sizable but not obtrusive. VERDICT A solid introduction to pet ownership, probably best shared one-on-one. Books My Toddler Loves - review site As our nearly two year old discovers an adoration for books and being read to, our four and a half year old is starting to explore a new dimension - recognising letters and reading words for herself. Books that suit them both are therefore ideal for quiet story times, where engaging illustrations are matched by easy read font and clear language. Published today, the latest in the delightful series of Lulu stories describes the responsibility and reward of caring for a pet... We see Lulu having lots of fun, and keeping track of her responsibilities with a wall chart of duties. A final spread shows them both enjoying a read of Puss in Boots. The words are charming and clear, ideally matched to warm, happy and colourful illustrations - perfect for engaging young readers. Nursery World A useful little book to help children contain their huge excitement at the prospect of becoming a pet-owner. Lulu wants a real cat and finally gets one, but only after she learns how to care for it and understands the patience needed to home a rescue kitten. EYE (Early Years Education) Owning and caring for a pet are important and life changing events for children. Much as the cuteness factor prevails, it is important that animal welfare is paramount and that children know that this is a big commitment. While it is not likely that a nursery or school would have a kitten or a cat, a childminder might decide the time is right for a new animal, or a child's parents might have mentioned that they are thinking of getting a pet. This is a lovely book that handles responsibility well, and which is endorsed by Cats Protection. |
LoveReading4Kids - Andrea Reece
This is another lovely and inspiring adventure for Lulu, one of the busiest and most positive little girls in picture books. Lulu loves cats, we can see that from her bedroom which is full of cuddly cat toys, but Mummy says that looking after a real one is lots of work. They take a trip to the library to find books about caring for cats, and Lulu starts to practice at home. When she proves to Mummy that she’s ready to take on cat ownership, they go to the cat shelter, where Lulu meets that cat that will become hers. Lulu is a little girl we can all look up to and this brims with her enthusiasm, effort and excitement, as well as a wonderfully warm sense of happy family life BooksForKeeps - Sue McGonigle Lulu really likes cats, she has several toy cats but would love a real one of her own. Mummy is not so sure, because cats are hard work. They go to the library to find out how to look after cats and then Lulu practices at home. Finally Mummy agrees and they visit a cat shelter to choose a cat, although in the end, the cat chooses them. Following advice from Jeremy at the cat shelter Lulu and her family prepare so that their new pet isn’t too worried. Lulu names her Makeda after an African Queen. Lulu finds that after Makeda has had a chance to settle in they both enjoy playing, cuddling and sharing stories together. This is a simple, warm story with appealing illustrations about adopting a new pet, the pleasure it can bring and the responsibilities it presents. The advice it contains is endorsed by the National Cats Adoption Centre. The trip to the library is a nice touch, linking this book to a previous Lulu story Lulu loves the Library. A great addition for fans and collectors of the popular Lulu series and perfect for young cat lovers and would be cat owners everywhere. A Mighty Girl Lola is a book-loving favorite, and this delightful story is a new treasure in the series. Fans of Lola can also check out the other books featuring her, including Lola At The Library, Lola Loves Stories, Lola Reads To Leo, and Lola Plants A Garden. Bookwitch Anna McQuinn shows how children can prove they will manage something they want very much. In this case it’s Lulu who loves cats (I counted ten toy cats in her room!), and who really, really wants a real cat. This is lovely, and should inspire children that maybe they can influence what happens in life. CBI (Children's Books Ireland) Lulu shows real determination through researching, making sure that her new cat has a special place to call her own in their house and waiting patiently while the cat settles into her new home. Beardshaw’s illustrations are rich in colour but still light and soft, perfectly suiting the story of Lulu. This is a great picture book where story and illustration come together seamlessly. Yet this is also a must-have picture book because it bucks the trend of a real lack of diversity in children’s books. McQuinn is a supporter of the #WeNeedDiverseBooks campaign and Lulu Gets a Cat is a perfect example of why mainstream publishers need to be braver in their choice of characters and settings. Good children’s books give children a chance to see and be different. A great addition to the Lulu series. Irish Examiner Lulu is a delightful creation and a fitting vehicle for children to emulate her wholehearted approach in preparing a suitable cat habitat. Adopting Makeda, called after an African Queen, has been a blessing for both Lulu and the cat. Age 4+ Mary Arrigan |
We like to include Goodreads and Amazon reviews as these are people who've not been sent review copies and just post for the love of the books!
I freaking love the Lola books. Jennifer
So. Stinking. Adorable. Perfect for cat lovers of all ages. Five stars. Jenn
This book is everything good. Kristen
The most realistic and thoughtful pet adoption picture book I've ever read! Lola wants to adopt a pet cat, but she does her research and she takes her time making a connection with an animal and then gives the animal the time and space to adjust to its new home. I love, love, love this book! Highly recommended for PreK-2 with acrylic illustrations. Five stars. Samantha
I love the Lola series because she's part of such a literate family, making regular trips to the library. And, in this instance, when she wants a cat, she first reads about what it'll entail to be a pet owner. Great example for kids. Earl
Lola wants a cat but must learn how to take care of one and how to adopt one first.
A sweet story about learning and responsibility and owning a cat. Win. Win. Win. Kristina Jean Lareau
Have you met sweet Lola? In the latest of Lola's adventures she has her heart set on getting a real pet cat. Anna McQuinn continues to capture the gentle, every day moments of childhood with her dear Lola. This book follows Lola as she learns about cats, prepares to be a pet owner, and ultimately helps her new cat adjust to its new home. There are no dramatic conflicts and no earth shattering truths exposed, just simple life being lived in the most endearing way possible. Another wonderful addition to the Lola series. Erin
I don't like cats, but I love me some Lola and Leo. A great book for the youngest of readers on learning both the fun and responsibility of being a pet owner. Her kitty chore chart was my favorite. Becky
Another perfect toddler story about Lola - simple and sweet! Tracy Clausen
This book fits solidly into the canon that Anna McQuinn has created. I especially like how Lola does research and preparation before she brings her cat home and is patient as the cat, Makeda, settles in. Mary
I am Lola and Lola is me. Despite the fact that at her age I was extremely afraid of cats. The book follows Lola proving she can take care of a kitten and then adopting one. It's a cute book and can be useful for parents with children who want a pet of their own. The art is adorable. Great book for preschool kids. Tracey
A fabulous first look at adopting a pet. Lola and her family research and read about cats. Then after preparing the house, they adopt the perfect cat for Lola from a shelter. Sarah
Another perfect toddler story about Lola - simple and sweet! Tracy Clausen
I *love* the Lola series - new favorites, all of them! (But especially this one, with the sweet lessons on how to love and care for a cat.) Abby
I freaking love the Lola books. Jennifer
So. Stinking. Adorable. Perfect for cat lovers of all ages. Five stars. Jenn
This book is everything good. Kristen
The most realistic and thoughtful pet adoption picture book I've ever read! Lola wants to adopt a pet cat, but she does her research and she takes her time making a connection with an animal and then gives the animal the time and space to adjust to its new home. I love, love, love this book! Highly recommended for PreK-2 with acrylic illustrations. Five stars. Samantha
I love the Lola series because she's part of such a literate family, making regular trips to the library. And, in this instance, when she wants a cat, she first reads about what it'll entail to be a pet owner. Great example for kids. Earl
Lola wants a cat but must learn how to take care of one and how to adopt one first.
A sweet story about learning and responsibility and owning a cat. Win. Win. Win. Kristina Jean Lareau
Have you met sweet Lola? In the latest of Lola's adventures she has her heart set on getting a real pet cat. Anna McQuinn continues to capture the gentle, every day moments of childhood with her dear Lola. This book follows Lola as she learns about cats, prepares to be a pet owner, and ultimately helps her new cat adjust to its new home. There are no dramatic conflicts and no earth shattering truths exposed, just simple life being lived in the most endearing way possible. Another wonderful addition to the Lola series. Erin
I don't like cats, but I love me some Lola and Leo. A great book for the youngest of readers on learning both the fun and responsibility of being a pet owner. Her kitty chore chart was my favorite. Becky
Another perfect toddler story about Lola - simple and sweet! Tracy Clausen
This book fits solidly into the canon that Anna McQuinn has created. I especially like how Lola does research and preparation before she brings her cat home and is patient as the cat, Makeda, settles in. Mary
I am Lola and Lola is me. Despite the fact that at her age I was extremely afraid of cats. The book follows Lola proving she can take care of a kitten and then adopting one. It's a cute book and can be useful for parents with children who want a pet of their own. The art is adorable. Great book for preschool kids. Tracey
A fabulous first look at adopting a pet. Lola and her family research and read about cats. Then after preparing the house, they adopt the perfect cat for Lola from a shelter. Sarah
Another perfect toddler story about Lola - simple and sweet! Tracy Clausen
I *love* the Lola series - new favorites, all of them! (But especially this one, with the sweet lessons on how to love and care for a cat.) Abby
Longer and more indepth Reviews
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Library of Cats
Cats read, cats review! Awwwww – this book is very Awwwww worthy! If you’re a human and your kitten, er, child wants a cat, this is a book to read. It shows exactly how it should happen. Read, practice, adopt!!! Lola is so adorable with all her cat paraphernalia in her room (she reminds me of mom and her cat stuff!). We ABSOLUTELY LOVE that Lola’s mom takes her to the LIBRARY to find out more information. Books are way better than Googling it! Then she puts in to practice what she’s read – never were stuffed kitties so well fed! Then it’s time and off to the shelter they go – another thing we ABSOLUTELY LOVE! – to find the right kitty. Kitty is finally brought home and learns how much Lola loves her. Thinking of adopting one of us regal creatures to grace your home? Read this ‘how-to’ book first! You won’t regret it. Rating 5 out of 5 paws because there is nothing we don’t like about this story and has everything to love in it!! Reviewer: Simon The Letterpress project It is always a delight to read another story about the eponymous Lulu because she is such a likeable character. In the best picture book tradition for young children, all Lulu’s adventures are domestic ones centred around family, home and the local community, because we all know how exciting these everyday experiences can be. In this fifth book of the series she is becoming dissatisfied with having toy cats and now really wants to own a real one but this is a serious business requiring some very careful preparation. More than anything else, this is a beautiful picture book that deserves looking at closely. I was lucky enough to see a preview of some of the artwork by the very talented Rosalind Beardshaw when I interviewed Anna McQuinn a few months ago. The message that shouts out from the cover is that getting a cat is pure joy, as expressed by the blissful expression on the faces of both Lulu and the animal as they cuddle together on her patchwork quilted bed. I liked the simplicity of the silhouetted cats on the end papers that contrasts with the very warm soft illustrations in the rest of the book. As with all the series, Lulu knows that the best place to find out information about anything is via the library so she is shown making her selection of relevant cat books and then settling down at home with a healthy snack and a drink to do her research. I really liked the next part of the story which shows her going to buy all the necessary equipment and pushing the shopping trolley. When she gets home she prepares a special corner behind the sofa watched approvingly by her smiling dad. It’s worth noting that the family live in a modest first floor flat with limited space which adds to its authenticity since most real children live in smallish houses and flats so making appropriate room for a pet is a big consideration. Eventually the big day arrives and they fetch the rather anxious looking cat from the shelter. Lulu is a very good role model because she is so kind and patient as she waits for the cat to settle into her new home. She names her Makeda, after an African Queen, and soon they are firm friends, sharing toys, playing together and having great fun. Books and reading are at the heart of all the Lulu stories and so we finish with the positive double page spread back in her bedroom as she reads Makeda a story about a famous cat, Puss in Boots. Owning and taking responsibility for a pet is a familiar situation for many young children so I suspect that this will be a very popular book. Apart from being another great story about Lulu, it is also endorsed by the charity Cats Protection as helping children to understand how important it is to take care of a new cat and allow it time to settle in. My grand- daughter is just as desperate as Lulu to have a cat of her own so I will be buying this for her so that she fully understands the commitment involved! - Karen Argent Read-It-Daddy - blogspot Just in time for World Cat Day (YES!!) here's a brilliant moggy-cuddling book featuring our favourite booky girl Lulu. "I'm so jealous!" sighed Charlotte when we sat down to review this book. Charlotte, you see, wants a cat - possibly more than anything else but because of where we live (with a fairly tiny garden and a rather nasty main road) and the fact that no one is in the house all day, we've sadly been unable to get our own little furry friend. But in "Lulu Gets a Cat" Lulu is lucky, and will soon be choosing a rescue cat all of her own. Sensibly, mum and dad take Lulu along to the library to read up and research about what you need to do to look after a cat - and when Lulu visits the rescue shelter, they're also full of good advice and recommendations when it comes to cat ownership. It's a wonderful and cuddly little book, coming out just in time for World Cat Day. There's tons of good advice in here too, so children will know what to expect if they're also lucky enough to be adopting their very own pussycat. Charlotte's best bit: Cat cuddles are the BEST cuddles. Daddy's favourite bit: We love Lulu books and this one's full of great advice for children who want their own moggy at home. |
Right Meow or Never -
Educational Resources Favorite Books Recently Rhory and I discovered a new book by Anna McQuinn titled Lola Gets a Cat and we both LOVE it! The purrfect addition to our home library! Working with rescues and watching my mom find new homes for a lot of cats, I so appreciate this book. A cat is a lot of work that most don’t realize. They also don’t realize that they need time to adjust to their new home. Lola is given all kinds of advice to make sure her new kitty feels right at home! In the end, they are snuggled together reading a book – purrrfect ending! In addition to reading this book – I was also able to secure an interview with Anna McQuinn herself! I have pondered writing my own children’s book so I was excited about getting to pick her brain a bit. I also wanted to see if she was a crazy cat lady like myself. The Talking walnut - Blog purr-fect reading: Lola gets a cat If you and your little one are ready for a sweet new story, be sure to check out Lola Gets a Cat. The latest book in the Lola series, it’s the charming tale of a precocious preschooler who’s been itching for a cat of her own, and does everything she can to prove that she is responsible enough. ...After demonstrating how devoted, knowledgeable and, most importantly, kindhearted she truly is, Lola finally reaps her well-earned reward. Readers’ hearts will melt at the expression on the chosen kitty’s face in anticipation of finding a home. (I couldn’t help but recall my own experience of laying eyes on our shelter cat, who happens to resemble the gray furred Makeda.) Of course, like any pet adoption story, Lola learns the art of patience as her furry friend gets accustomed to her new surroundings, a gentle reminder for those considering adding a pet to their own family. Before long, Lola’s new bestie has settled in and as the story ends, it’s as though Makeda has been with her the entire time. An endearing story with lovely illustrations, Lola Gets a Cat may not be the most fitting title for this book. It’s more ‘Lola Gains a Friend’…and more. In a Nutshell: A love letter for kitty fans everywhere. A perfect pick just in time for Valentine’s Day, Lola Gets a Cat is geared at ages 2-5. Walking Brain Cells - bookblog Continuing the Lola series, this book is all about Lola wanting a pet of her own... There is a gorgeous warmth to all of the Lola books and this one is no exception. The strong family dynamic is shown once again here as well with Lola’s parents making sure that she is capable of caring for a pet before allowing her to have one. The book has a strong focus not only on Lola’s wishes for a pet but on the importance of allowing the pet to be happy as well. Beardshaw’s illustrations are full of small details that add to the warm feel. There are drawings of cats around the rooms. Lola’s interest in cats is evident from her patterned pajamas to the barrette in her hair to the decorations in her room. As she practices to own a cat, the emphasis is on effort not perfection as Lola spills water. All of these elements add up to show children that they too can one day care for an animal in their own way. A lovely book about pet ownership that shows the importance of giving a new pet space and time to find their own way. Appropriate for ages 2-4. The Children's Book Review This is a delightful book with the cutest little girl who longs for a cat of her own. All children who want pets can relate to her struggle. Getting a pet is a lot of work, but it can be wonderfully fun! Even Lola’s planning chart (mealtime, watering time, play time) would be great conversation starters with children who are planning on getting a pet of their own. Parents could take children to the library, just like Lola, so that they can learn more about their desired pet. The book is both informative and entertaining. Anna McQuinn’s story is sweet and simple, and even the youngest children will enjoy hearing about Lola and her newly adopted cat. The tone is light, and perfect for snuggling with before bedtime. The illustrations are beautiful and very colorful, the paint popping off of the page. Children will love Makeda the cat’s bright blue eyes. The book is diverse and full of characters of all races, and Lola herself is African American. What a wonderful addition to a child’s library! Highly recommended. |