The Good Luck Cat

Book review by Kate Pavao, Common Sense Media
The Good Luck Cat Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 6+

Cat in constant peril in picture book better for older kids.

Joy Harjo Picture Book 2000
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Parents say

age 6+

Based on 2 reviews

Kids say

age 12+

Based on 2 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this book.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this book is about a cat who may have used up its nine lives being shot at by kids with a BB gun, accidentally trapped in a dryer, chased by a dog, and more. Families who have recently lost a pet may want to find another book -- but for those considering adding a furry friend to their household, this story can provide a good way to talk about how to treat pets (and also a reminder about their crazy cat antics, like sleeping near car motors and fighting with other felines). Even though this is a picture book, it is probably a better fit for elementary-aged kids.

Community Reviews

SandraS 1
SandraS 1 Adult
October 8, 2014
age 5+

one of my favorite picture books

We are a cat loving family, and this book is one of our favorites. The book is well written and I love the characters. Many bad things happen to the cat, which may bother some, but I think it is realistic. My kids loved the book from a young age.
lindsey12345
lindsey12345 Adult
April 5, 2009
age 6+
why did you do this for 4 year olds it is off
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Woogie is a good luck cat -- after all, Aunt Shelly won at bingo after petting her. But the cat is quickly running through its nine lives after she is almost killed by a car, trapped in the clothes dryer, attacked a ferocious dog, and even shot at by boys with a BB gun. When Woogie disappears one day, the little girl narrating the story fears she is gone for good. For four days she worries and searches, until she wakes up to find Woogie \"purring and singing as if she had never left.\"

Is It Any Good?

Beautiful, striped, and scrappy, Woogie’s easy to love, and illustrations of her fighting another cat with her hackles raised or contently curled up next to her food bowl are realistically rendered. While the cat is in constant peril in this book, no actual violence is shown, and the majority of elementary-school kids should be able to deal with the content. They, too, will be most struck by some of the insightful writing, such as "When I pet her she purrs as if she has a drum near her heart."

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the idea of a cat having nine lives. Why do people say that about cats? What does it really mean?

  • What are some ways the girl was a good pet owner? Was there anything she could have done better?

Book Details

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