Professor Buber and His Cats by Susan Tarcov Ages 4-9
Ketem the cat is looking for a new home. Professor Buber's house looks like a good place to live, but the local cats tell Ketem the famous writer doesn't want any pets. He once let his cat distract him when a man came to him for advice, say the cats. Since then, no more cats, they say. But Ketem has a plan to make Professor Buber's house his own, and enlists a group of neighborhood cats to help. Based on a true story of Martin Buber's cats.
A fanciful weaving of facts and dream-like thoughts, this gentle, enchanting book enhances reality as it introduces young readers to a historical figure they may never have encountered.
Ketem, a wise Israeli cat, is about to face the loss of his comfortable bookstore abode in Jerusalem. He has decided that his new residence will be the book-filled home of Professor Martin Buber, the world-renowned author and philosopher. Perhaps based on Buber's legendary relationship with his cat, the philosopher's reputation is well-known among the local feral felines. The cats confer, discussing the plausibility of moving in with the venerable sage.
Respect and relationships ― keystones of Buber's worldview ― permeate this engaging book. It is an excellent candidate for nighttime reading or for any time you and your children need to remember some important and lasting values.
About the Author
Fotini Tikkou is an illustrator from Greece, now living in Copenhagen. She graduated from the Athens School of Fine Arts. Her work includes children's books, editorial illustrations, and handmade ceramics.