Claire & Whiskers, by Karen J. Fernandez

Book Review of Claire & Whiskers
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The Children’s Book Review

What to Expect: A New Pet, Responsibility, Family, Empathy, and Belonging.

A young girl’s dream of having a pet comes true when she welcomes a lonely kitten into her home and learns what it means to care for another living creature.

When Claire meets Whiskers, a kitten in need of a home, her wish for a pet finally becomes reality. With each page turn, family members contribute their own special touch—from Mom and Dad’s practical guidance to her brother’s playful energy and her grandparents’ wisdom—and Claire discovers that creating a loving home for Whiskers requires teamwork, patience, and genuine care. Themes of responsibility and empathy are woven in as the family works together to help their newest member feel safe and cherished, beautifully demonstrating that bringing an animal home is just the beginning of the journey.

Together, the words and art capture both the excitement of a new pet and the quieter moments of connection that build trust between child and animal. Fernandez’s prose is warm and accessible, perfectly pitched for the picture-book audience, with language that feels natural and engaging without being overly simplistic. At the same time, Brisson’s illustrations complement the tender storytelling of Claire’s multi-generational household, which comes to life with visual warmth.

Young readers who dream of having a pet—or who are adjusting to a new furry family member—will find both comfort and practical wisdom in this celebration of what it truly means to welcome an animal into your heart and home.

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About the Author

For over 30 years, Karen Fernandez has dedicated her life to helping children discover the magic of reading. As the founder of ABC Trace & Say Early Learning Center, she combines her love of teaching with her passion for making literacy joyful, accessible, and confidence-building for every child.

Karen is a reading teacher, tutor, author, and speaker who believes that early literacy should be playful, meaningful, and rooted in love. With a Master’s Degree in Education and certifications as both a Reading Recovery Teacher and Reading Specialist, she has supported countless families and young readers throughout her career. She currently works as the reading specialist at a Montessori school in San Diego, where her work continues to inspire curiosity and connection.At home in Carlsbad, Karen enjoys gardening, cooking, traveling, and getting lost in a good book.

For more information, visit abctraceandsay.com.

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