The Mindful Cat

Inspired by Cheung’s cat Batsy, this picture book follows a lithe black feline with green eyes and pink whiskers. “As you go about your day,/ Sometimes things don’t go your way,” the text reads, portraying an energetic, floppy-eared pup on a collision course with the unaware mouser. As the cat cycles through resulting emotions (“weary,” as she hides beneath the couch; “sad,” as she sees the vase she’s knocked over and broken; and “mad” at the dog), the emotion words are highlighted in typography that evokes yarn. “It’s always best to be a Mindful Cat,” the narration subsequently advises, portraying the ruffled cat taking in a deep breath and then letting “it all out with a MEOWWW.” Soft illustrations done in dry pastels and colored pencils impart easily readable emotions. Though loosely rhymed prose detracts, the book may inspire young pet lovers. Back matter includes 10 “Mindfulness Tips for Mindful Cats,” with a link to more tips and guides to meditation. Ages 4–8. (Self-published)