Fiona Watt (text) and Rachel Wells (illustrator), That’s not my kitten, Usborne Publishing, August 2023, 10 pp., RRP $14.99 (board book), ISBN 9781805311942
That’s not my kitten is an enchanting touch-and-feel book tailored for readers as young as 3 months old, making it a delightful addition to the beloved “That’s Not My…” series. Published by Usborne, this book proves to be another endearing creation, fostering language development and introducing new vocabulary through the exploration of various textures through five adorable kittens.
Fiona Watt has created yet another charming read for young readers and their family. Through five little kittens, babies can develop their language awareness and learn new words used to describe various textures. Watt has constructed simple sentences on each page allowing for an enriching reading experience for young readers.
Illustrated by Rachel Wells and designed by Non Figg, the story was brought to life, allowing young readers to reach out and enhance their sensory awareness. From a tongue that feels like felt, to paws that feel like Velcro, the book will capture the undivided attention of very early readers. While the illustrations are simple, they are vibrantly captivating, adding another layer of engagement to the overall reading experience.
During my reading session with my 4-month-old niece, we revelled in exploring and feeling each kitten while eagerly spotting the recurring mouse on every page. The thoughtful inclusion of various flowers and bugs on each page further elevated the engagement factor, making this touch-and-feel picture book a must-have for very young readers. That’s not my kitten is not just a book; it’s a multisensory journey that both babies and parents are bound to cherish.
Reviewed by Anna Tran