The Language of Cat
on Goodreads (37)
What’s inside...
The Language of Cat is a collection of poems by Rachel Rooney that explores various themes through the whimsical and insightful perspective of cats. Aimed at children, the book offers a playful yet profound look at life, emotions, and the world around us. Rooney's poetry is accessible and charming, appealing to both young readers and adults. The poems cover a range of topics, from quirky cat behaviors to broader reflections on nature and human experiences. The book is celebrated for its creativity, humor, and ability to capture the imagination of readers. Highlights include discovering who cast the P from a spell, reading about a queen dreaming of burgers and chips, finding out what happened to a friend who swallowed a DVD, and learning the language of cats. With wordplay, riddles, and engaging storytelling, this debut collection establishes Rooney as an exciting new children's poet.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
91 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the cat would say if it could talk to us?
How do you think the cat feels when it's alone or when it's with people?
Can you imagine a day in the life of the cat? What would it do from morning to night?
Why do you think the author chose a cat to express these feelings and ideas?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the emotions and scenarios from the cat's perspective, fostering empathy and imagination. Use expressive reading to bring the cat’s character to life, and ask your child to guess what might happen next in the story to keep them engaged and thinking creatively. After reading, relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing any pet's behavior in your home or neighborhood, linking the fictional world of the book to real life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Perspective-taking
Explanation: Through the diverse voices and experiences of the characters, 'The Language of Cat' helps children understand and appreciate different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider the feelings and viewpoints of others, fostering empathy and better social interactions at school and at home.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: The book’s poetic form encourages children to explore language creatively, expressing thoughts and emotions effectively.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to engage in creative writing or storytelling, enhancing their communication skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: With a variety of poems that explore different themes, characters, and settings, the book provides a broad worldview.
Real-World Application: It prepares children to embrace and celebrate diversity in their communities and beyond, promoting inclusiveness.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Learning
Explanation: The playful use of words and rhythms in the poems makes learning a fun and engaging experience for young readers.
Real-World Application: This encourages a lifelong love for reading and learning, critical for personal and academic success.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Some poems present characters in challenging situations, which they resolve using wit and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and solve problems creatively in their own lives, building resilience and confidence.