Not my cat

Is "Not My Cat" the right name for this feline? Staceypants, a Black artist and gardener who wears colorful trousers, lives in a quiet neighborhood and does not like messes. When a fluffy gray cat appears, Staceypants sets out some tuna. But Staceypants is far too busy for a cat--plus, they scratch the furniture…and use a litter box, YUCK!--so the feline is dubbed "Not My Cat." The cat might have other ideas, however. She continues to visit, and the two of them do yoga, eat breakfast, take selfies, sunbathe, and nap. Where does Not My Cat go when she's not with Staceypants? "Maybe, like me, she spends a lot of time alone. Maybe, like me, she is cautious about making friends and keeping them too." One day, Not My Cat doesn't show up. One day turns into many. After weeks of worry, Not My Cat returns, and a joyful Staceypants realizes that maybe the cat needs a name change. Inspired by the author's own experiences (photos of Patton and her cat are appended), this is a sly, sweet tale of friendship. Staceypants' musings on Not My Cat's whereabouts hint at yearnings--and fears--of making new connections. The digitally rendered illustrations pop with texture and color; they're a fine match for the text and make it clear that a real friendship is blossoming. Sure to be catnip for all cat fans, whether reluctant or enthusiastic. (Picture book. 3-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.