Shaloshvili, Natalia. What a Small Cat Needs. Natalia Shaloshvili, Illus. Translated from the Russian by Lena Traer. Enchanted Lion, 01/2026. [40]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-5927-0477-4. GRADES Preschool–1. OUTSTANDING.
Pondering life and filled with wonder, one small cat experiences the here and now, just as a young child would. The embracing artwork of acrylic and watercolor pencil showcases soft and gentle pops of color amidst a gray-blue landscape, creating a visually arresting world while also conveying a sense of warmth and endearment. This highly impactful tale creates an intimate connection through simplicity, direct conversation and sweet insight into the needs and wants of a little one. Most importantly, after all adventuring, at the end of the day we all need “someone with a big heart and warm hands,” lovingly providing both the chance to explore and the safety of home.
Alexandre Petrakis—San Francisco Public Library