Lost Cat

Mader, a former ad exec, debuts with the delightful story of a cat named Slipper that gets separated from its owner. Readers see the world as Slipper does: first off, she’s not hoping to get adopted by a human—she believes she’s the one doing the adopting. Additionally, the humans are identified only by their footwear; Slipper’s original owner was Mrs. Fluffy Slippers, and the cat meets Ms. Muddy Boots, Mrs. Iron Shoes (a horse), Mr. Cowboy Boots, and others during her travels, which conclude with a happy reunion. Mader’s fine pastels ably represent the details and textures of the environments Slipper explores and the people she meets, from a motorcycle’s gleaming chrome during a “fast and scary ride,” courtesy of Mr. Big Boots, to the parade of footwear Slipper sees walking the concrete streets of a town. As for the gray-and-white striped cat herself, Mader had a real-life model in a cat that found its way to his doorstep, and it shows in his loving and lifelike images showcasing Slipper’s delicate, soft fur. Ages 4–8. Agent: Brianne Johnson, Writers House. (Oct.)