Harvey and the Collection of Impossible Things

The One and Only Ivan meets Pax in this charming illustrated middle-grade novel about one stray cat's search for shelter, acceptance, and courage.

For city strays, life on the streets can be unforgiving. When every day is filled with territorial animals, fast-moving traffic, and aggressive boys with sticks, it takes more than a little courage to get by. Harvey, a stray cat struggling to survive, is searching for a home of his own—one that's safe and dry, with a view of the sky. But when the unexpected kindness of one woman saves him from the harsh city elements, he is forced to rethink what makes a home and who, if anyone, he can depend on. With the sage advice of Chester the dog and three talkative sparrows, Harvey will learn that trusting and helping others are some of the bravest things you can do.

  • The One and Only Ivan meets Pax in this charming illustrated middle-grade novel about one stray cat's search for shelter, acceptance, and courage.

    Perfect for:

    • Fans of Katherine Applegate

    • Fans of the Warriors series

    • Young readers who love adventures that are exciting but not scary

    • Parents

    • Grandparents

    • Educators

    • Librarians

  • If you're reading this, I don't trust you.

    You see, humans are sometimes kind to me. Some sweet ladies say hi to anyone they meet on the street. One human always saved me bakery treats.

    But just as often, humans are not kind to those like me—stray cats. Many people think I'm dirty (which I am not). Some think I'm a nuisance, to be kicked or played with.

    My mother taught me to be cautious, thoughtful, and kind. I am good at those things.

    But she also taught me to be brave. And that's something I needed a lot of help with.

    If you're gentle and you don't move too quickly, I'll tell you about it. How I met Danielle. How three sparrows showed me the way. How Chester changed my life. And how I became brave.

    Are you ready?

  • PURRENNIAL MESSAGE: A story about being brave and learning to trust others is always relevant to a kid's experience. Particularly in the current cultural moment, when social anxiety and technology-induced loneliness are on the rise, this book shows young readers how being brave, making connections, and allowing oneself to be vulnerable can lead to an enriched life.

    FOR CAT LOVERS: Harvey's point of view has all the unique but recognizable characteristics of these adorable house pets, but still manages to provide refreshing alternatives to the stereotypes we typically ascribe to them. Infused with humor and emotion, this is a book that a variety of readers, cat lovers or not, can appreciate.

    WRITING THAT SOARS: The classic, winning voice of this book makes it perfect for a gentle introduction to different perspectives.

    BELOVED AUTHOR: Garret Weyr's middle grade novel The Language of Spells won a California Book Award in 2018. She is also a Michael L. Printz winner for her book My Heartbeat. A constant source of innovation and playfulness, she's a favorite author of books for children.

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  • "A tale full of heart and memorable moments."

    -Kirkus Reviews

  • “Garret Weyr’s ability to see the world through the eyes of a little street cat is astounding; she intuitively understands the plight of feral animals, and makes their fears, hopes, and slow process to find the courage to trust and love a vividly poignant, alive, and real journey that any human could readily identify with.”

    —Barbara McClintock, acclaimed author of Adèle & Simon

  • "Sweet line illustrations . . . a satisfying read."

    -Booklist

  • “Through Harvey’s eyes, we understand that we all, no matter human or animal, have a story worthy of being heard.”

    —Tricia Helfer, actor and animal advocate

 
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The Language of Spells