A tiny kitten. A dark dumpster. One brave little meow that changes everything.When a hungry little black kitten tumbles into a cold metal dumpster, he is scared, alone, and unsure whether anyone will hear his cries for help. He tries to climb out but the walls are too slippery. He meows as loud as he can, but no one hears. Exhausted he has to rest, but soon he's up and trying again, he doesn't give up. It pays off when a kind man hears something as he throws his own bag of trash into the dumpster. He calls out to him and finally sees his blue eyes amongst the trash surrounding him. He knows exactly where to take him - to Aunt Lynny not really his aunt but everyone calls her that because she rescues so many animals. Inspired by a true rescue story, Coogie introduces young readers to courage, kindness, perseverance, and the power of being loved. Aunt Lynny saw something special in this little black kitten and his big blue eyes. It didn't take her long to realize this kitten was meant to be part of her life. Named after the author's real life late husband's childhood imaginary friend, Coogie becomes the heart of a touching new children's book series created to honor a remarkable legacy and to help animals and children in need.Perfect for children ages 3-10, this beautifully illustrated story invites families to follow Coogie's first adventure while discovering gentle lessons about resilience, hope, compassion, and helping others. Parents and grandparents will appreciate the meaningful message: even when life feels dark or difficult, courage and kindness can lead us toward the light.In this first book, Coogie faces what may seem like impossible odds-but through determination, patience, and one very loud meow, his life is transformed. Future books in the series will continue Coogie's adventures in a whimsical cat world inspired by the life and work of an accomplished cardiologist, medical education innovator, and philanthropist, while encouraging children to "Dream Big, Work Hard, and Help Others."By bringing Coogie home, readers are not only sharing a heartfelt rescue story with the children they love-they are also supporting a mission of compassion. Profits from the series will benefit animal rescue and children's charities, helping give more animals like Coogie a second chance.
