The Life of Riley the Cat Author:Julie Akerson Chicos, Jennifer Taylor Meet Riley, a curious kitty who goes in search of discovering what it means to be a cat. Does she have a purpose like so many of those other creatures that she meets? Time will tell and in the meantime young readers will come to learn a thing or two themselves. Disturbed by an unfamiliar cawing sound, Riley leaves her familiar sunny windowsill... more » for the unknown world outside. She meets a crow who boasts about his function: " I eat bugs, worms, mice.... I also eat the insects that hurt farmers crops, and by doing so I help farmers give people good things to eat." He comments that Rileys own activities (napping, eating, playing) dont sound very important," leaving her with an existential crisis. This sets the plot in motion, and along the way Riley meets a menagerie of strange and exotic creatures who all share their unique tales with her. Riley comes to understand how spiders, bees, and beavers are all very useful creatures. When she meets a wise bat, named Bart, she learns the most important thing of all that you have to look deep inside yourself to see what it is that you can do to make the world a better place. Children will learn this lesson along with Riley but will also come to see that everyone is important in some way and that being different isn't a bad thing. Back home, Riley is reminded of the most important job of all being part of a loving family. This is an uplifting, heartwarming tale. The rich and inviting illustrations pull children into this amiable story of worthiness, courage and acceptance. Ominous creatures were purposely used to educate children about our environment and acceptance of those who are different than ourselves. The message is limitless and is as meaningful to children as it is to parents.« less