Dear Stray

"Dear Stray!" by Kirsten Hubbard is a tender and heartfelt story that explores the bond between humans and animals. The story revolves around a young girl interested in a stray cat that wanders around her neighborhood. The girl writes heartfelt letters to the cat, expressing her concern, affection, and desire to give the stray a loving home.

As she observes the cat’s cautious yet curious behavior, she finds ways to earn its trust, eventually making the cat feel safe enough to accept her offer of care.

Through her letters, the story beautifully captures the emotions of caring for someone hesitant to be loved. The narrative showcases patience and the mutual understanding that can form between people and animals, culminating in a touching moment of connection when the cat finally trusts the girl. Of course, there are lessons for person-to-person relationships as well.

The main themes of "Dear A Stray!" include compassion, understanding, and patience. It emphasizes respecting boundaries and earning trust, especially when dealing with vulnerable beings. 

Susan Gal’s illustrations are widely appreciated for their warmth and expressiveness. The soft, earth-toned colors and detailed depictions of the cat and the surroundings evoke a sense of coziness and familiarity.

Educational Benefits

1. Developing Empathy: The book encourages children to consider the perspective of others, especially those who may be scared or uncertain. By following the girl's journey to earn the stray cat's trust, young readers learn to be mindful of how others might feel in unfamiliar or challenging situations.
2. Understanding Patience and Trust-Building: The story demonstrates patience and persistence in relationships. Children learn that trust cannot be forced. Sometimes it takes time and effort to make someone feel safe. This lesson translates to human friendships and building meaningful connections.
3. Encouraging Responsible Behavior: Through the girl’s actions, children learn about the responsibility involved in caring for another being. The protagonist’s thoughtful efforts to provide food, shelter, and comfort to the stray cat serve as a model for young readers, highlighting the importance of being responsible when taking care of animals.
4. Promoting Emotional Expression: The use of letters as a narrative device allows children to see the importance of expressing their thoughts and feelings. It encourages young readers to articulate their emotions, either verbally or in writing, which can be a helpful way to process complex feelings.

About the Author and Illustrator

Kirsten Hubbard: Kirsten Hubbard is known for her work in children’s literature and young adult fiction. Her stories often explore themes of empathy, understanding, and adventure, and she has a knack for capturing the emotional lives of young protagonists. She lives in Los Angeles with a pup named Teddy Fox.

Susan Gal: Susan Gal is a celebrated illustrator known for her warm and rich textures. She often uses a combination of watercolor, ink, and digital techniques to create visually engaging scenes that draw young readers into the story. Gal’s illustrations are instrumental in conveying the emotional depth of the narratives she works on. She lives in Berkeley, California, and is also the illustrator of “Please Take Me for a Walk.”