The City of Lost Cats

Gr 3-7–When 12-year-old Fiona runs away from the cramped apartment she lives in with her aunt, it is not the first time. But this time Fiona swears it will be different. She is determined to stay away and find her destiny. After the sudden death of her parents last year, Fiona struggles with finding her place. When she stumbles upon an abandoned mansion known as “The City” by the group of cats that call it home, Fiona decides to clean up the space for them. Then she learns that there are plans to demolish the building, and she springs into action to save it and cats she has grown to love. In doing so, Fiona learns about the community, the housing crisis, animal shelters, and civic engagement. The omniscent narration covers multiple perspectives including those of three cats, Fiona, and a demolition worker. The narrative is interspersed with poetry from two lost parakeets who have found refuge in the house, news bulletins, flyers, and notes, all of which help to tell the stories of Fiona and the animals taking refuge in the City.