The Castle of Cats

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with pre-conceived notions or judging others based on how they look. This Eastern European folk tale offers a beautiful entry point for discussing why first impressions are not always accurate and why keeping an open heart is a vital virtue. Through the journey of a youngest son who finds himself in a castle run entirely by cats, the story illustrates that magic and goodness often hide in unexpected places. Appropriate for children ages 4 to 8, this book uses vibrant folkloric illustrations to capture the imagination while teaching a gentle lesson about kindness and patience. Parents will appreciate the way it rewards the protagonist for his gentle spirit and curiosity rather than just his strength or cunning. It is an ideal choice for bedtime when you want to inspire wonder and a sense of empathy for the unusual or the unknown.