A Story of Courage, Community & the Quiet Power of Friendship: A gentle chapter book about a determined young cat who refuses to let his elderly neighbor’s home—and legacy—slip away.
The Black Cat Who Spoke for Love, © 2025 Ricardo A. López Rago. One Fifteen Press.
When Nero, a curious one-year-old black cat, discovers his elderly neighbor John is being pressured to sell his home and move away, he refuses to let it happen. John has lived on Abbington Street for over 80 years, quietly helping everyone in the neighborhood, but his distant sisters don’t see his value—and neither does John himself. With help from Tigger, a cynical twelve-year-old tabby, and Bootsie, John’s devoted tuxedo cat, Nero embarks on a mission to show John how much the community needs him. But when small acts of feline intervention aren’t enough, Nero must find a way to do the impossible to save the home and heart of West Demford.
This is a story about:
• Community and belonging
• Everyday courage
• Friendship across generations
• Standing up for what matters
Perfect for readers ages 8–12 who love cats, believe in everyday heroes, and know that sometimes the smallest voices can make the biggest difference.
Paperback (B&W images, fast shipping) — Amazon
Kindle edition — Amazon
Paperback (color images) — Lulu
Hardcover (color images) — Lulu
A note from the author: How My Cat (and a Friend’s Hospital Stay) Led Me to Write My First Children’s Book
Read a free sample: The Black Cat Who Spoke for Love — Chapter 1
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