Creating the World of NORMAN THE INTERESTED CAT
By author Cheryl Cage
Although I’ve been politically active my entire life, in 2005 I began to work exclusively as a political consultant. And, in my experience, there seems to be one of two things that happen when you work in politics for a long time; you either become a cynic or you find another outlet to help institute meaningful change.
Fortunately for me I found my new outlet when I became friends with Norman. Norman was the muse that motivated me to develop my children’s book series: NORMAN THE INTERESTED CAT: Books That Start Conversations.
I really got to know Norman in 2015 when he came to live with me while his family’s house was being completed. (I’d never had a cat as a housemate, I’m a dog person.)
The country was deep into the 2016 election. In addition to national politics I was working on a local campaign. I was surrounded by people who were stressed and angry. Meaningful debate was almost non-existent. It seemed as though people just wanted to shout opinions.
Back to Norman. I was doing laundry one day and Norman was keeping me company (he’s very good company). I looked at him and said, “Norman, you are an incredibly interested cat. I wonder what you would think about what’s going on these days.”
I began making up rhymes about Norman’s potential interests and political opinions. It felt so cathartic to give a voice to all the anxieties. I started thinking how great it would be if you could introduce difficult topics through a calm and empathetic character. Would people relax enough to listen to new ideas via this character?
Almost at the same moment, I realized adults would be a hard sell, but children might be interested! Could I develop an endearing character who modeled calm conversations and used critical thinking to develop an opinion? Could my character be kind and patient but still strong in character? If children learned early how to listen, research in order to decide their own minds, wouldn’t they become more confident adults and better leaders?
That week I wrote Norman the (Interested in Everything) Cat. Norman has appropriate self-esteem and an empathetic approach, but he is also his own cat! His individuality makes him a little stubborn. (Because, of course, no one’s perfect.)
Norman’s tag line is: Books That Start Conversations and is for children 6-months to 8-years.
Norman talks about issues that can be a point of debate among individuals. Should we wear a mask? How does clothing identify a person? What constitutes being strong: asking for help or keeping troubles to yourself?
As adults read Norman’s books to their children I hope they will discover openings to have meaningful conversations about the issues Norman’s stories discuss. Norman also has music to help solidify his messages.
LIST OF NORMAN’S BOOKS & SONGS
Norman the Interested (in Everything) Cat
Norman is a cat who is interested in everything! And, he wants to know; what do YOU like to do?
(Theme) Song: Norman the Interested Cat
Norman the Interested (in Keeping Friends Healthy) Cat
Norman convinces Jake you CAN wear a mask, remain socially distant and STILL have fun!
Song: Wash Hands
Norman the Interested Cat: Happy Clothes
Norman celebrates the unique clothing styles of his friends.
Song: Happy Clothes
Norman the Interested Cat: Audie Finds Her Smile (avail July 2021)
Norman helps Audie learn how to work through her hurt feelings.
Song: Smile (coming July 2021)
Norman the Interested Cat: Bedtime (available Sept 2021)
Norman explores all the ways his friends wind down after a busy day.
Song: Bedtime (available now)
Norman’s Interesting World: Coloring Book (available June 2021)
Budding artists decorate pictures from Norman’s adventures!
www.NormanTheInterestedCat.com
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Contact Cheryl directly at cheryl@
Cheryl Cage is the author of fifteen books and counting, including the children’s book series Norman the Interested Cat. Her varied career includes founding the aviation consulting firm Cage Marshall Consulting, and serving as a political consultant and community activist for 20 years. She lives in Tucson, Arizona, with her rescue pups, Jake and Bert. She and Norman have been friends since 2015!
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