One Mad Cat Launch!

Giveaways, inspiration, AAJA, and more.

One Mad Cat and the Missing Book is out now! AHHHH!!!!!!

If you want a deep dive into the creation of this book, you can read my post on Kidlit Survival Guide. Or catch a peek at the inspiration behind the book on IG. I’m so excited for kids to meet Cat and go on some puzzling adventures with her.

One Mad Cat Activities

I’ve been putting together some activities to accompany One Mad Cat and the Missing Book, available for free download on my website. (Feedback is welcome if you have any.)

1. First up, a book scavenger hunt. Inspired by Cat’s hunt for a missing book, I designed this scavenger hunt activity as a fun way to get kids to explore the books in their library and classroom.

2. Next up, an activity pack. This one has drawing instructions to draw Cat and some puzzle activity sheets for kids to enjoy (just like Cat.)

3. Finally, I’m working on an SEL worksheet and a set of calming cards to use in the classroom or at home. This one is still in progress, so stay tuned for more details!

Celebrating!

I’ve had so much fun with the launch of this book, from decorating my first bookstore window for Kidsbooks in Edgemont, to celebrating with donuts with kidlit friends Ginger Ngo and Stephanie Ellen Sy, to sweet custom cookies from local North Vancouver cookie artist, karen.t.ology.

Thank you to all of the people who helped me make this book what it is and celebrate it’s launch: my family, my friends and critique partners Christine Evans Faith Kazmi and Cathy Tran, my agent Elizabeth Bennett, my editor Sarah Ketchersid, my art director Lisa Rudden, and the entire Candlewick team. ❤️

AAJA in Minneapolis

I went on a lovely 36-hour trip out to Minneapolis for AAJA, where I was on a panel with Hachette publicist Cheryl Lew, moderated by award-winning broadcast journalist Michelle Li. It was inspiring to hear about Hachette’s Raising Readers initiative and Michelle’s Very Asian Foundation, both of which are doing great work getting books into the hands of more readers.

Plus, I snuck in a visit with a dear old college friend who I hadn’t seen SINCE COLLEGE (hi, Susie!) and a visit to Wild Rumpus where I spotted and signed Layla and the Bots (and picked up some goodies for myself while I was there.)

Lots and Lots of Ocelots releases on August 11, so get your pre-orders in!

Giveaway

I realized, I forgot to do a giveaway last month! Ah, my brain. So, I’m giving away TWO copies of One Mad Cat and the Missing Book this month, signed with a bookmark and sticker. (Open to U.S. and Canada.) Like and comment for a chance to win!

Happy reading!