Parents' Guide to

Koko's Kitten

By Mary Dixon Weidler, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 3+

Amazing true story of pet loss helps kids understand grief.

Book Dr. Francine Patterson Animals 1985
Koko's Kitten Poster Image

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What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

Children love pets, and Koko the gorilla is no exception. When her keeper asks her what she wants, Koko insistently replies--in American Sign Language -- "Cat, cat, cat." Enter All Ball, a tiny kitten abandoned at birth, who isn't afraid of anything--even a 500-pound primate. This amazing true story captivates young listeners.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say Not yet rated
Kids say (1):

Although this book's pages seem text-heavy, the story of these two mammal friends captivates even the youngest listeners -- and children seem even more engaged because the story is true. The photographs give the reader a closer-than-the-zoo look at one of our remarkable primate cousins. Kids gravitate toward the story and are eager to share their own pet tales after seeing Koko and All Ball at play.

And because the book expresses the despair and anger Koko feels after All Ball's sudden death, children who have also experienced the loss of a pet are encouraged to vent their feelings. Since Koko is renowned for her ability to communicate with humans, it seems appropriate that her tale opens the door for children to share their grief.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about Koko's loss. How does she feel when the kitten dies? Why is she angry?

  • Families can also discuss communication. Talk about ways you communicate with words, and try learning some sign language.

Book Details

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