Children’s Book About a Special Cat Launches on Global Cat Day

Boston, MA, September 28, 2018 --(PR.com)-- The Humane Society estimates that there are more than 50 million feral cats in the United States. Global Cat Day, Oct. 16, 2018, is designed to draw attention to the lives of these animals, and there’s one former feral in Cambridge, MA who will be celebrating in an extra special way. Little White, a former feral cat now living with author Faye Rapoport DesPres, is the subject of DesPres’ new children’s book, “Little White: The Feral Cat Who Found a Home.” Details about the book, illustrated by Laurel McKinstry Petersen and designed by MaryChris Bradley, can be found at www.fayerapoportdespres.com.

“Little White: The Feral Cat Who Found a Home” (Writer’s Coffee Bar Press) is based on the true story of a small white cat who was rescued from the streets near Boston. While most feral cats are best cared for by volunteers who work with Trap/Neuter/Return programs, Little White couldn’t stay outside. The book shows how she survived a cold New England winter and other outdoor dangers before finally being coaxed indoors, where she made a best friend and became part of a family.

The tale and adorable illustrations are sure to touch young animal lovers’ hearts everywhere.

“Children understand what it means to be scared and alone,” DesPres said. “They also know that love can do amazing things, like help us feel safe. That’s what Little White’s story is about – both in real life and in the book.”

DesPres and Petersen are childhood friends from upstate New York who hadn’t seen each other in years before collaborating on the book. “I knew I wanted Laurel to illustrate this book,” said DesPres. “She perfectly captured the story with her charming drawings.”

“It was such a joy working on this project with Faye,” said Petersen. “It was easy to rekindle our friendship even after 30 years; it is as if we have never been apart. As an illustrator it was a treat to be allowed so much freedom to express myself.”

DesPres and Petersen hope children will learn what life is like for feral and stray cats and will be inspired to care for stray animals they might come across in their own lives. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to selected animal shelters around the country.

“Little White: The Feral Cat Who Found a Home” is available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback, and hardcover editions. More information about the book and its author can be found online at www.fayerapoportdespres.com.

Faye Rapoport DesPres was born in New York City and spent most of her childhood in upstate New York. Faye brought home so many strays as a child that her mom gave up saying no and let her keep them all. She currently lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with her husband Jean-Paul, Little White, and the rest of their rescued cats.

Laurel McKinstry Petersen was born in Hartford CT. She met Faye when her family moved to upstate New York. They were both budding activists and became instant friends. When she was a child, her favorite subject was mice which she used to decorate greeting cards for her family and friends. Laurel lives in Albany with her husband Glenn.