Blog Archives
Joy is a Timeless Companion
I Am NOT That Cat is a delightful, illustrated collection of poems, each one a whimsical ode to the feline mystique. What inspired you to write this particular collection of poems?
Like all of my children’s books, happiness, compassion, kindness, and empathy are always in the forefront of my mind when writing children’s literature; each poem a different kitten with a lesson to share. I want children to enjoy my books, yes, but I also believe that beyond the cheerful mood, small, positive, encouraging life lessons should be the underlying tone.
While the book is considered a children’s book, it appeals to cat owners, young and old. Did you write these poems with a specific audience in mind, or was it a more personal endeavor?
Creating children’s poems about cats holds a delightful charm that bridges generations, uniting both the young and the young at heart in a shared experience. Cats, with their playful antics and mysterious nature, naturally lend themselves to the imaginative world of poetry. Writing about them in a way that appeals to everyone is like opening a window to a world where age is but a number, and joy is a timeless companion.
For children, a poem about a frolicking feline can spark curiosity and empathy, teaching them about companionship and the simple joys of life through the relatable antics of their furry friends. It’s in these tales they find laughter and lessons, wrapped up in a rhythm that dances in their minds long after the story ends. The whimsical style captures their imagination, inviting them to explore and dream.
For adults, these poems offer a warm nostalgia that reminds them of their own childhood or perhaps the pets they cherished. The playful language can stir a sense of light-heartedness, often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s about recapturing that sense of wonder and allowing oneself to pause, smile, and remember that magic exists in everyday moments.
Bridging this gap between young and old, these cat poems become a shared secret, a universal language of affection and joy. They celebrate the silly and profound, anchor us in the present, and remind us of the beauty found in both the simplicity of a child’s perspective and the rich tapestry of life experiences that adults carry. In the world of cats and poems, age fades away, leaving only the joy of a purring heart.
Do you have a favorite poem in the book, and if so, why does it hold special meaning for you?
My favorite poem in I Am NOT That Cat is the true story about the newest member of our household, a once malnourished, tiny abandoned kitten, now called Itty Bitty Kitty. When I first saw her shivering in the rain it was a sight that tugged at my soul. I knew in that moment that I had to help the poor thing who was quite literally howling in desperation.
As I brought her into our house, my thoughts swirled with emotions. I was angry that someone could do such a thing to a helpless creature, but I also felt a mix of compassion empathy and a determination to right this terrible wrong. That’s when the idea struck me: why not capture this experience in a poem? Writing has always been my way of processing the world around me, and this little creature deserved more than just my help; she needed her story told.
Through my poem, I wanted to express the journey we shared—from the initial fear and uncertainty in her eyes to the eventual spark of trust and love. Each stanza became a tribute to her resilience and spirit, a reminder that even in abandonment, hope can bloom.
Ultimately, my poem is a celebration of our bond. It serves as a reminder to others about the importance of kindness and compassion toward all creatures, big and small.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book that I am working on, is, no surprise, another rhyming poetry book for children. This will be the third in the That Cat series and is titled Silly Cats. This book, however, is not just about cats as I have introduced a little blue spider called Jack! Like the previous two titles in the series, Silly Cats boasts full-page artwork accompanied by humorous rhyming poems. I plan on releasing this book in late October or early November, this year.
Author Links: X | Facebook | Website
“Oh our wonderful felines, both regal and wild, in their world of enchantment, we’re forever beguiled. For the love of a cat is a treasure that’s rare, a gift in our lives, beyond compare. From tabby to tuxedo, each one a delight, with whiskers that twitch and hearts pure as light.”
Get ready for a PURRFECTLY delightful bedtime experience that will spark joy and laughter in every household!
I Am NOT That Cat
I Am NOT That Cat by August E. Allen is a delightful, illustrated collection of poems, each one a whimsical ode to the feline mystique. The subject is cats, of course, and Allen introduces readers to an array of distinct personalities: a lunar adventurer, a mischievous trio befriending a St. Bernard through a window, and many more. Despite the book’s emphatic title, each poem paints a vivid picture of exactly that kind of cat we’ve all encountered or wished we had.
Rhyme is the engine that drives these poems. Allen’s rhythmic precision gives the text a musical lilt that practically demands to be read aloud. The verses are buoyant, clever, and meticulously crafted, never faltering or falling flat. At moments, the style evokes the playful genius of Dr. Seuss, particularly in lines like, “NO WAY I’ll wear that hat! I am NOT that sort of cat!” It’s humorous, yes, but also sharply observed.
Ideal for children, the book offers both entertainment and gentle wisdom. Allen occasionally steps out of the verse to deliver messages of kindness and compassion: “Treat animals with kindness, It’s the right thing to do.” Yet, it’s far from juvenile. Adults especially those familiar with the capricious charm of cats will recognize the species’ signature behaviors: the aloofness, the flair for drama, the unapologetic chaos. One poem, featuring a cat nudging a vase to its inevitable doom, captures this perfectly.
While the poetry is undoubtedly engaging, it’s the illustrations that elevate the book into something truly special. Each cat is rendered with precision, personality, and an unmistakable feline attitude. They’re not just drawings; they’re portraits. Expressive, dynamic, and visually captivating, the illustrations would hold their own as standalone art.
I Am NOT That Cat is a charming, beautifully illustrated gem that delights on every level. Whether shared with a child or enjoyed solo, it’s a small book with a big heart and a purr to match. The only downside is that it leaves you wanting more, more pages, more poems, more cats. It’s a testament to how enjoyable the book is that you’ll find yourself wishing it didn’t end so soon.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DXFTBHPL
LITERARY TITAN 