Intrepid Feline Who Opens Doors Captures Hearts in Real-Life Tale, Daisy’s Near CATastrophe
BRISTOL, Rhode Island — Pet lovers of all ages will be inspired by the tale of Daisy, a clever kitten who is fiercely loyal to her dog sibling, Bear. Daisy also has a very special talent: she can open doors! But when Daisy uses her unique ability to escape and look for Bear, she finds trouble instead.
Based on true events, Daisy’s Near CATastrophe from Debra Westgate-Silva is a children’s book that traces the true story of an intrepid feline who goes missing and the K9 pet tracker who comes to her rescue.
It all starts when Daisy’s family goes on vacation, and Daisy is sent to a cat kennel. But this feisty feline doesn’t want to stay there — not without her best friend, Bear!
While the story follows Daisy’s adventures and mishaps, the illustrations reveal another part of the story that Daisy is unaware of — a pet-detective dog is searching for her.
Just when things are at their darkest, Daisy remembers who she is: a kitten who can open doors is also a kitten who doesn’t give up. Daisy’s special talent may have gotten her into trouble, but it may also be the way to find her way back to Bear and their family.
Written for children ages 4-9, Daisy’s Near CATastrophe gives readers of all ages an inside look at the real-life search and rescue efforts conducted by K9 pet trackers. And the book’s beautiful illustrations contain clues for kids to spot along the way.
To help families and teachers reinforce the underlying messages of friendship and perseverance, Westgate-Silva, a former educator, created a full curriculum guide available on her website at www.debrawestgatesilva.com.
“The story offers many teachable opportunities,” said Westgate-Silva. “The curriculum includes social emotional activities about friendship and assertiveness as well as literacy skill-based lessons on making connections between illustrations and text, distinguishing fact from fiction and experimenting with point of view.”
Ultimately, Daisy’s Near CATastrophe is a heartwarming and empowering tale of perseverance, friendship and the unbreakable bonds between pets.
To hear Westgate-Silva speak about the book and Daisy’s real-life story, watch here:
About the Author
Debra Westgate-Silva worked in public education for many years and now writes grants to support nonprofit organizations focused on literacy, education and trauma-impacted youth. She is active in her community, serving on the boards of organizations dedicated to promoting childhood literacy and recently delving into citizen science with frog watches and terrapin conservation projects.
Daisy’s Near CATastrophe is her second children’s book. Her first book, Bethlehem Barn, is a light-hearted retelling of the Christmas nativity story from the animals’ perspective. Other works have been published in Highlights for Children, Teaching Tolerance (now Learning for Justice) and Intrepid Times. Learn more at www.DebraWestgateSilva.com.