By Cammie McGovern

Published: 2021

I suggest: 4th grade+

I have a confession to make. I have fallen in love with cats. Well, my cat, in particular. Well, my daughter’s cat, actually.

I didn’t intend for this to happen. But when my kiddo begged for a kitten during the pandemic, and my grad professor just happened to have some foster kittens available, it all worked out.

Our cat, Milo, has quite the personality.

So, when I started reading McGovern’s middle grade novel written from a cat’s perspective, I loved the way she captured the characteristics of a feline. While this book deals with the difficulties of autism for both kids and their parents, “Franklin’s” take on it will charm you and make you want to cuddle this large kitty, who learns where he belongs, just as the rest of us hope to do.

Here’s more from the publisher:

A heartfelt companion novel to the critically acclaimed Chester and Gus about inclusivity, autism, friendship, and family, perfect for fans of Sara Pennypacker and Kate DiCamillo.
After being separated from his family, Franklin becomes an independent cat, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog to his person, a boy named Gus, and Chester knows just the girl to be Franklin’s person—Gus’s classmate, Amelia.

Amelia loves cats, but has a harder time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and sees how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into some trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try.

This sweet and moving novel demonstrates how powerful the bond between pets and people can be, while thoughtfully depicting a neurodivergent tween’s experience.