Flat Cat
What’s inside...
From Pete Oswald, New York Times bestselling illustrator of the Bad Seed series, and Tara Lazar, critically acclaimed author of 7 Ate 9, comes Flat Cat, the story of a cool cat who learns that sometimes life is about finding the best of both worlds. Flat Cat was born flat, able to stray and roam unseen. But after an accidental wash, Flat Cat becomes adorably puffy and fluffy, leading to a hilariously quirky and irreverent story, sure to appeal to fans of Pete the Cat.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Sophie felt when she first met Flat Cat, and why?
What changes did you notice in Sophie’s life after Flat Cat came along?
What would you do if you found a cat like Flat Cat?
Why do you think Flat Cat was so different from other cats?
How did Sophie and Flat Cat help each other grow and change?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions and perspectives by asking them how they would feel in Sophie’s shoes. Highlight the importance of friendship and change by discussing the mutual growth between Sophie and Flat Cat. Validate their thoughts and feelings, mirroring their responses to show understanding and support.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: In 'Flat Cat', the protagonist, Sophie, learns to adjust as her beloved cat, Jimi-My-Jim, transforms after an encounter with a steamroller. This teaches children the importance of adapting to changes.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to real-life scenarios such as moving to a new city, changing schools, or any new changes in their routine, helping them to embrace change positively.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Sophie learns to understand and empathize with Jimi-My-Jim's new situation and needs. This narrative demonstrates the value of empathy towards others' feelings and circumstances.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more considerate and understanding towards their friends or family members who might be going through changes or challenges in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: To help Jimi-My-Jim enjoy his new flat self, Sophie comes up with innovative ideas. This element of the story highlights how creativity can lead to positive solutions.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to think creatively in their own lives, whether in solving small problems, in their play, or in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Acceptance
Explanation: The story progresses to show how Sophie accepts Jimi-My-Jim in his new form, conveying the lesson of accepting others as they are, despite physical changes.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital in teaching children to accept and celebrate differences in others, promoting inclusivity and respect among peers.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Both Sophie and Jimi-My-Jim exhibit resilience throughout their journey in the story. It’s about bouncing back from unexpected events and making the most of the situation.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to remain strong and resilient when faced with obstacles or setbacks, a valuable skill throughout life.