The Letter - by Irene Verdu (Hardcover)

About the Book

Originally published in Spanish as: Una carta. Alzira [Spain]: Algar, Ã2022.

Book Synopsis

This sweet picture book shares the warmth that acts of kindness can bring when a wayward letter proclaiming "I love you" is received by lonely Mr. Cat.

A perfect option for elementary schoolers and their communities with a beautiful social-emotional lesson.

Curmudgeonly Mr. Cat is a withdrawn sourpuss--until he receives a suprise letter. Believing that someone out there loves him, curiosity sends him out into his community to investigate who it could be. Through different acts of kindness, Mr. Cat learns that he isn't as alone as he thought as he meets new friends.

A perfect social-emotional learning book as children learn about how the warmth of love can ripple out from one act of kindness.

Review Quotes

A windblown letter effects happy change.
A lost letter falls into a puddle; the water washes off the writing on the envelope. Who sent it, and who is it intended for? The wind opens the letter, which simply reads, "I love you." Deciding that this beautiful message should be delivered, the wind lets "the letter choose its own destiny." It makes its way to curmudgeonly Mr. Cat, whose motto is "better a lonely cat than a disappointed one!" Reading the missive cheers him; he searches for the sender. He encounters Ms. Goose. Did she send it? Mr. Cat carries her heavy basket for her, but she hurries away, forgetting to thank him. Next, he spots Mrs. Hen. Perhaps she sent it! He rescues one of her chicks from a tree but receives no thanks. Later, he jump-starts Shepherd Dog's motorcycle--again, no thanks. Back home, he discovers his grateful neighbors bearing delicious treats, apologetic they hadn't acknowledged his kindness. Mr. Cat finally feels loved. And the letter? The wind blows it from Mr. Cat's house--to where? This poignant, uplifting Spanish import offers a satisfying ending and delivers a meaningful message about the importance of gratitude. Children will welcome the opportunity to discuss the letter's next destination. Clad in old-fashioned garments such as bowler hats and bonnets, the anthropomorphic animals cut whimsical figures in the expressive cartoon art, which incorporates onomatopoeic sound effects.
A sweet, thoughtful story with a pointed message about expressing thankfulness.
--Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Irene Verdú studied philosophy at the University of Valencia where she also completed her teacher training. She has worked at the Oliva Archaeological Museum and in library services. She began to write after the birth of her daughter. She lives in Spain.

Verònica Aranda graduated from the Joso School: Comic and Visual Arts Center in Barcelona. She likes to create a variety of effects and textures in her artwork to give it a handmade feel. Verònica lives in Spain. www.veronikaaranda.wixsite.com/ilustradora