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About The Book

A stray cat follows her love of books all the way to a new library home in this charming debut picture book that’s “catnip for librarians and young book lovers alike” (School Library Journal, starred review).

Clarisse is a clever cat who loves books. She may not understand the dark, squiggly lines, but she can’t get enough of the pictures. One day, she stumbles upon a magical building where people walk in empty-handed and come out with an armload of books. She has to find a way inside!

There’s just one problem: NO CATS are allowed in the library! That’s not going to stop clever Clarisse, though. Once she sneaks in, she stumbles upon exciting new stories and even helps a little girl practice reading aloud. But when the librarian comes looking, will Clarisse be allowed to stay?

About The Author

Photo courtesy of the author

Lauren Emmons is an award-winning illustrator who currently lives in North Dakota with their partner, dog, and two rambunctious cats. She earned a master’s degree in children’s book illustration at The Cambridge School of Art and now spends their days illustrating for children’s books, magazines, and galleries. No Cats in the Library is their debut author-illustrated picture book. Lauren has loved libraries since she was a child, and still regularly walks out with their arms full of books. Visit them at LaurenEmmons.com.

About The Illustrator

Photo courtesy of the author

Lauren Emmons is an award-winning illustrator who currently lives in North Dakota with their partner, dog, and two rambunctious cats. She earned a master’s degree in children’s book illustration at The Cambridge School of Art and now spends their days illustrating for children’s books, magazines, and galleries. No Cats in the Library is their debut author-illustrated picture book. Lauren has loved libraries since she was a child, and still regularly walks out with their arms full of books. Visit them at LaurenEmmons.com.

Why We Love It

“A cat who loves picture books, a library, and cozy art—what’s not to love?! This story will warm every book reader’s heart.”

—Catherine L., Editor, on No Cats in the Library

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books (March 14, 2024)
  • Length: 32 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781665933681
  • Ages: 4 - 8

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Raves and Reviews

* “Readers will want to snuggle right up to the book. A solid choice for story hours and marketing library programs, this is catnip for librarians and young book ­lovers alike.”

School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

"Emmons makes her authorial debut with this heartwarming tale. No Cats in the Library is part adventure, part encouragement, and all delightful."

Shelf Awareness For Readers

"The pleasing story emerges in the simply written text and the characters’ cartoon-style speech balloons. In the attractive illustrations, muted shades of orange and teal are used extensively, giving the artwork a warm, distinctive look. This library-friendly volume is sure to find its audience."

Booklist

"Sweetly encouraging."

Kirkus Reviews

Resources and Downloads

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