For children navigating complex family situations or fighting for their voice, this story champions a child's right to decide who raises them, exploring loyalty and love.
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels unheard or caught in the middle of a complex family conflict, like a custody dispute. It tells the story of Cat, a 12-year-old girl raised by her unconventional and loving grandmother after being abandoned by her actor parents. When her now-famous parents reappear and sue for custody, Cat must fight for the right to choose her own family and stay where she feels she belongs. The book explores powerful themes of loyalty, resilience, and what truly makes a family. It's an empowering read for children who need to see a character take charge of her own destiny, validating their right to have a voice in decisions that affect them.
The book deals directly with parental abandonment and the emotional turmoil of a custody battle. The approach is secular and focuses on the child's emotional experience and legal rights. The resolution is hopeful and empowering: Cat's wishes are respected, and she gets to stay with her grandmother. It validates the child's perspective as paramount but acknowledges the process is emotionally difficult.
Ideal Reader
A child aged 9 to 12 who feels their voice is lost in adult conflicts, particularly those involving custody, divorce, or non-traditional guardians. It is perfect for a child who needs a model of resilience and self-advocacy and who might feel like their own family is a bit different.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared to discuss the definitions of family, love, and responsibility. The parents in the book are portrayed as selfish, which could be a catalyst for conversations about motivation. The term "pag" is a nickname Granny gave herself, derived from her old motorcycle gang, and may require brief explanation. The book can be read cold, but discussing the idea that kids have a right to be heard beforehand could be beneficial. The child expresses feelings of being a pawn in an adult argument, saying things like, "Nobody asked me what I want," or shows anxiety about having to choose between caregivers.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will connect with the clear injustice of the situation and root for the strong good (Granny) vs. bad (parents) dynamic. An older reader (10-12) will better appreciate the legal strategy, Cat's sophisticated emotional intelligence, and the deeper themes of identity and a person's right to self-determination.
What Makes It Special
This book is unique for its unwavering focus on the child's agency. Cat is not a passive victim of circumstance; she is the engine of the plot, actively fighting for her own future. Unlike many books that focus on adjusting to a new reality, this story is about fiercely defending an established, loving, non-traditional family unit against outside forces.
Read plot summary
Twelve-year-old Cat has been raised by her loving, eccentric grandmother, a former motorcycle stunt rider nicknamed Granny the Pag, ever since her aspiring actor parents abandoned her. When her parents become famous and decide they want her back, they initiate a high-profile custody battle. Cat, who feels no connection to them and sees their motives as selfish, wages a clever and determined campaign to have her own voice heard by the courts and the public, fighting to remain with the only real parent she has ever known.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Granny the Pag is not like other grandmothers. What qualities make her a good and loving guardian for Cat, even if her lifestyle is unconventional?
2
Cat's parents claim they want her back because they love her. Based on their actions, do you think that's their only reason? Why does Cat have a hard time believing them?
3
The judge ultimately listens to Cat's wishes. Why is it important for kids to have a say in big family decisions? What can make it hard for adults to listen?
4
Cat writes letters, talks to reporters, and even runs away to make her point. If you were in her situation, what is a creative way you might try to make your voice heard?
5
How did Cat's friendships with the boys next door help her during the difficult time with the court case?
