What relationship do dogs and cats have? Typically we say they hate each other, but we all know people who have both animals that get along. Today I get to share a fun book that explores this relationship from the dog's point of view and it is not just any dog but it is a pug. You may remember by review of Ode to a Pug. Well the pug is back and he has a new housemate. The book is Ode to a Pug: That Cat! by Jill Rosen and illustrated by Stephanie Rohr. At the end of this post there is a giveaway!! Be sure to check it out.
About the Book:
Ode to a Pug: THAT CAT! Written by Jill Rosen and Illustrated by Stephanie RohrAges: 3-6 | 22 Pages | Publisher: Pug House Books (2025) | ISBN: 978-1-0692261-1-2
Publisher’s Book Summary: From the author of the award-winning Ode to a Pug comes Ode to a Pug: THAT CAT! – the first in a series of amusing, adorably illustrated stories starring the gassy little pug that started it all.
Hilarious pug Phoebe is back, but she is not alone. See what happens when an unexpected new member enters the household.
Follow the silly antics as our number one velcro dog wrestles with sharing the spotlight. Of course, with its classic curly tail and squishy face, only a pug can pull off being both naughty and irresistible.
Double the chaos. Double the fun. Another laugh-out-loud, read-aloud story perfect for children ages 2-8 and dog (and cat!) lovers of all ages.
Purchase Link
About the Author
-1%20-%20Jill%20Rosen.jpg "Jill Rosen")
Award-winning, bestselling author Jill Rosen is a career marketer and advertiser who lives with two kids, three dogs, two cats, one bird, and a former stand-up comic and Princeton sketch-comedy writing husband. She does not need to go far for comedic inspiration or advice!
Through her brand management work, Jill’s early recognition of and appreciation for powerful writing and artistic design only flourished. She is a seasoned workshop facilitator and strategic healthcare consultant, specializing in the areas of mental health and infertility.
Jill was inspired to begin writing her own stories by her two boys, who are both avid readers. Now, Jill can’t wait to share them with all the young readers out there!
About the Illustrator:
Steph Rohr is a French Award-winning children’s book illustrator who earned a distinction from ECV Art School in Paris. She is fond of anything silly, funny, wacky, daft, and colourful. As a freelance illustrator and art director, Steph has been working in publishing and advertising in London.
https://www.instagram.com/stephdoespictures/
From Me:
This book is just as sweet as the first one. Phoebe isn't sure about her new companion but once the cat is removed from the house she misses her friend immediately. I love how the book describes the habits of a cat so well and of course the pug finds them so strange. After all can you imagine a dog pooping in a litter box? But, Phoebe does try it when she is missing the cat. As the mother of three cats (and several previously) I can say the cat activities are right on. The pug doesn't like the sandpapery tongue of the cat or the claws. Or the way the cat walks around like the toots don't smell. We have a smelly boy who doesn't realize it with his toots. It is always interesting introducing a new animal to a home. This book captures the feelings of the first animal well. There is a bit of curiosity as well as maybe some jealousy.
I love how Phoebe first thinks the cat's behavior is crazy and gets jealous that the cat takes her special spots away. Then when the cat is gone Phoebe gets excited to have the house to herself. She doesn't have to share her bed or the floor. There isn't the crazy cat playing with a cord or scratching the curtains. But the house doesn't feel the same and Phoebe realizes she misses the cat. When the cat returns the reunion is wonderful. Phoebe has realized that she loves the cat and is ready to accept the cat as part of the family. She is willing to cuddle with their owner at the same time as the cat. The book is adorable and sweet and gives a real look to having pets and how they may feel at times. It will be well loved by animal lovers and could easily become a favorite for story time.
Giveaway:
Enter for a chance to win one of twelve signed hardcover copies of Ode to a Pug: THAT CAT!. In addition, one lucky winner will receive a custom 4″ pug plush and a die-cut pug sticker. Good luck!
