A few words about Joanne Rocklin’s new book, THE FIVE LIVES OF OUR CAT ZOOK, due out in April

Joanne Rocklin’s next book, THE FIVE LIVES OF OUR CAT ZOOK, is due out in April 2012 from Abrams Books for Young Readers. The cover art was created by Chris Buzelli, who also created the cover art  for ONE DAY AND ONE AMAZING MORNING ON ORANGE STREET.

 

Joanne writes the story in the voice of Oona, who has a humorous and honest take on everything she encounters, even very serious things like the kidney problems of the cat she and her brother Freddy came to care deeply about during their father’s illness and eventual death. The book explores several themes on many levels. When Zook, short for Zucchini, has to go to the vet, Oona’s brother Freddy is worried, but she tells him cats have nine lives and Zook is only working on his fifth. Oona goes on to tell him fanciful short stories about Zook's four other lives. Telling lies, telling stories, the real meaning of true love, and bittersweet endings are at the heart of this funny novel for middle grade readers. It’s another must-read by Joanne Rocklin.