A Few Words of Wisdom from Pete the Cat

Pete the Cat’s Groovy Guide to Life, is a collection of quotes that will be familiar to adult readers. From Wordsworth to Shakespeare, Ford to Einstein. I know what you’re thinking. “No kid knows who those people are.” And you’re probably right; many of them are not exactly on the preschool or even elementary school radar yet. Fortunately, Pete is, and he’s there to act as a guide. Each quote is paired with a complementary quote from Pete; one which says the same things in terms a child can understand. For example:
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”-Pablo Picasso
“It’s cool to color outside the lines.” -Pete
It’s a book of encouragement, of glass half-full philosophy, and of practical wisdom. And while it may not have the same rollicking rhythm as other Pete books, it contains lessons (and voices) that children need to hear, usually more than once.
If, Pete the Cat’s Groovy Guide to Life has you in the mood for more feline positivity, here are a few other Pete books to add to your collection.

Proud of his brand spankin’ new white shoes, Pete takes a stroll around the block. We all know it’s impossible to keep white shoes white, and Pete is no exception. His shoes change from red to blue to brown as he steps in one mess after another. But in true Pete the Cat fashion, every mishap is taken in stride.

Children getting ready to start school for the first time will appreciate having Pete as their personal tour guide. In this book, Pete explores the classroom, the library, and the lunchroom. Each new setting brings new sounds, smells, and confusion, but through it all, Pete stays calm because, as he likes to say, “It’s all good.”

Not only does Pete have some rockin’ shoes, but he’s got a favorite shirt, too. He starts out with four groovy buttons, but they pop off, one by one. Readers will quickly catch on and count down with Pete’s familiar refrain. This particular book in the series was a 2013 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor book.

Pete has a new neighbor and at first, he’s super excited. But after meeting the new kid on the block, Pete’s not so sure. Gus can’t do all the things Pete can do, and he looks strange. But Pete soon comes to realize that Gus the Platypus has his own talents to offer. A book about acceptance, Pete the Cat and the New Guy encourages young readers to be who they are, and to look for special talents in others.

Every child (and adult) has those days when they simply wake up on the wrong side of the bed. When Pete wakes up in a bad mood, Toad gives him a pair of magic sunglasses that make the world seem like a brighter, happier, place. Pete shares his sunglasses with others who need a little cheering up, and the day appears to be improving until his skateboard hits a crack in the sidewalk and the glasses go flying. Is all lost, or will Pete learn a lesson about the power of a positive attitude?
Are your kids fans of Pete the Cat?