
This charming chapter book follows fifth-grader Ava Wren as she grapples with common pre-teen challenges, all recorded in her diary. Ava longs for a pet and finally adopts Taco Cat, an injured tabby who is initially withdrawn and fearful. Simultaneously, Ava experiences the painful shift in her best friendship when a new girl enters the picture, leading to feelings of loneliness and jealousy. The story beautifully explores themes of empathy, resilience, and self-discovery as Ava learns to care for her timid pet and navigate complex social dynamics. It's a relatable read for children experiencing similar friendship changes or the responsibilities of pet ownership, offering a gentle narrative voice and a hopeful resolution.
Fifth-grader Ava writes in her diary about her family, losing her best friend to a new girl, and adopting an injured, skittish, and very special cat.