The Bodgea Cat series offers a unique reading experience with viewpoints from both a child and a cat. Miguel is a charming character with a wavering confidence that kids can relate to. The page-turning scenes will keep you guessing while also tugging at your heartstrings. Picture Purrfect helps readers understand why everyone deserves a second chance.

A sweet story in which a stray cat finds a home and a young boy finds his voice. Lolo is a cat out on the streets. He's cold and hungry and faced with the dangers of rival street cats. When Miguel finds him and brings him back to his family's bodega, he never wants to leave again. Miguel loves art and especially loves drawing comics. But his parents discourage this passion and would rather he concentrate on academics. Together, Lolo and Miguel help each other figure out what matters most in life. Young readers will love the alternating POV between cat and boy, punctuated by adorable illustrations in this first book in a series of Bodega Cats books. Can't wait to read the others!

Thank you to the publisher for the advanced reader copy.

This is a lovely, heartwarming story that has broad appeal and blends English and Spanish in an effortless way. The characters are believable and the descriptions and setting bring you right into Washington Heights. It was enjoyable to get the perspective of both the child and the cat in alternating chapters. The illustrations feel just right and the comics interspersed throughout made me smile. Purrfection!

Bodega Cats is a heartwarming story about friendship and family, with the unique perspective of a first-generation child who doesn’t want to disappoint his parents and a cat who finds a new home. The illustrations are extremely cute and match the feel of the story so well.

This is such a timely concept for a book.
It reminded me of Oliver and Company since half the story was told from the cat's perspective (which was confusing.)
I think overall the protagonist's characterization is interesting, but a little stretched out and overly dramatic.
This story would have been better as a picture book.
Regardless, I wish it great success! The ending is very sweet.
Thank you NetGalley and MacMillan Children's for the digital review copy.