A review of How Cats Say I Love You by Guy Brown
I came across this children’s book while browsing the new books published about cats. I was intrigued by its contents and so decided to contact Guy Brown’s agent, Violet Antonick at Platypus Media, to receive a copy to review.
I deeply appreciate books that skillfully help children understand the nature of cats, and this book in particular excels at that.
The illustrations, by Davide Ortu, add a lovely visual dimension to the text, encompassing different learning styles, and the context is presented in an easy-to-follow way.
For this review, I had the delightful opportunity to interview Guy, and our conversation began with a question about who is Guy Brown and what occupies his days?
Tell us a little about yourself. Do you work full-time as an author or do you also work in other fields?
I work full time as a broadcast meteorologist. I’m on air in New York every morning, Monday through Friday, delivering weather forecasts and preparing viewers for the latest weather conditions. I’m a part-time author and I love writing about anything that intrigues me. I usually write every other Saturday morning with a cup of coffee. I enjoy spending time outside in nature on a sunny day, playing tennis, golf, painting, and of course, reading.
What gave you the idea for the book?
First, I wanted to move away from writing about weather and meteorology. I had a new obsession with cats after rescuing a cat in 2017. I didn’t know much about cats and wanted to learn as much as I could about my cat so I could take care of her. I became curious about how cats saw the world. I was impressed by the agility of the cats. And my cat was witty, and I found her so funny. I just felt complete.
How did you do your research for the book?
Lots of books and magazines. I had a moment where I read a book a week. Aggressive reading stemmed from loneliness while living in Wisconsin. I would drive to Barnes and Noble on my days off and read, take notes, and do a lot of research.
Did you have any influence on what you wanted the illustrations to look like and how did you meet Davide Ortu?
I knew I wanted the illustrations to be vibrant. I wanted to tap into the minds of young people and show cats as fun pets. I imagined colorful, kinetic illustrations, and I knew Davide could see my vision and would really help those illustrations come to life.
What did your friends and family think of the idea of this book?
My friends and family supported the project, especially my little nieces, who own cats.
Do you have cats yourself? Tell us about them?
I had a cat, but I don’t have one anymore. I rescued a cat while living in Wyoming. (My wife has had health issues and my cat is now with a family friend)
Have you spoken to any children who have read the book and what lessons have they given you?
I usually get the cutest responses like “Cats can’t talk” or they burst out with a big smile. I see curiosity aroused when they see the cover. Sometimes they don’t say anything and just hold the book close to their heart.
What do you like about children’s minds? What can we learn from it?
I think we can learn a lot about children. As adults, we are constantly trying to “please” our inner child. It is thanks to our childhood that makes us the person we are today. A child’s brain can be malleable. What I mean by this is what a child focuses on and will grow into adulthood, especially when they are young and sensitive to the world around them. I believe that the older generation should have the responsibility to pay it forward.
What do you personally like about cats?
I love so many things about cats. The mind of a cat. A cat’s body language. Simply, the fact that cats are cats motivated me to write this book. I wanted to expose children from different backgrounds to cats, so they could feel the love I felt. I love cats’ curiosity, their speed and their ability to pounce, jump and squeeze through tight spaces. I could spend all day watching a cat.
What do you think cats can teach us?
Cats can teach us how to feed themselves. Cats can lead us to love unconditionally. But cats can also teach us to be open and try new things. We all know the saying that cats are curious. That being said, ask why more if you want to learn or discover something new.
Where can people get your book?
Science naturally Or platypusmedia.com. Any online store should carry the book. The book is also available on amazon United Kingdom starting March 5 and available now Amazon United States.
Would you like to add anything?
My goal behind writing this book was to open them up to cats who may not have even thought about owning a pet cat. Additionally, I am learning more about social interactions and communicating effectively with others. This book also teaches children how to communicate, whether with another person or a pet. Communication should also be mutual, so it is important to pay special attention to this.
Thank you very much Guy. I wish you good luck with your book.
In my evaluation of “How Cats Say I Love You” by Guy Brown, I came to the conclusion that this is a fantastic children’s book adorned with delightful illustrations. The book not only highlights the unique language of our beloved pets, but also provides valuable information on how to fully appreciate their modes of communication. By understanding the nuances of how cats express various emotions, readers can improve and deepen their relationship with these charming creatures. Overall, the book provides an engaging and informative experience, making it a wonderful addition to children’s literature on the theme of our feline friends.
About this author:
Anita Kelsey holds a first class honors degree in Feline Behavior and Psychology (BA Hons work based) and runs a veterinary referral service dedicated strictly to the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral problems in cats. She is also a qualified cat groomer who specializes in grooming aggressive or phobic cats. Anita writes for Your Cat Magazine and is part of their expert panel to answer readers’ questions about cat grooming. She also advises on feline behavior for CFBA (Canine and Feline Behavior) magazine and is a full member. Anita, a keen advocate of a vegan lifestyle, is based in London but consults throughout the UK as well as for international enquiries. She lives with her husband, a music producer, and two Norwegian forest cats, Kiki and Zaza.
His first bookClaws. Confessions of a Professional Cat Groomer‘ was published by John Blake in 2017 along with his second book, Let’s talk about cats released on Amazon US and UK 2020.