Ketzel, the Cat Who Composed, Newman/Bates

A kitten’s stroll down a keyboard leads to a celebrated one-minute composition in this charming portrait of a remarkable true friendship.

Moshe Cotel was a composer who lived in a noisy building on a noisy street in a noisy city. But Moshe didn’t mind — everything he heard was music to his ears. One day, while out for a walk, he heard a small, sad sound that he had never heard before. It was a tiny kitten! “Come on, little Ketzel,” Moshe said, “I will take you home and we will make beautiful music together.” And they did in a most surprising way. Inspired by a true story, Leslea Newman and Amy June Bates craft an engaging tale of a creative man and the beloved cat who brings unexpectedly sweet notes his way.

About Leslea Newman:

Leslea Newman is the author of more than seventy books for readers of all ages, including The Best Cat in the World, illustrated by Ronald Himler; Hachiko Waits, illustrated by Machiyo Kodaira; and October Mourning: A Song for Matthew Shepard, a Stonewall Honor Book.

About Amy June Bates:

Amy June Bates has illustrated more than forty books for children, including Waiting for the Magic by Patricia MacLachlan and The Dog Who Belonged to No One by Amy Hest. Her work has been honored by the Society of Illustrators.