Squishy McFluff: The Invisible Cat!

Squishy McFluff: The Invisible Cat! introduces Ava and her invisible feline companion, Squishy McFluff. The story follows their adventures and mishaps around Ava's family home, told through rhythmic verse and accompanied by red-and-blue illustrations by Ella Okstad. This early chapter book combines everyday situations with imaginative play as Ava and her invisible friend navigate household rules and family dynamics. The text features wide spacing and accessible language for emerging readers, while maintaining a consistent rhyming pattern throughout. The book explores childhood imagination, friendship, and learning responsibility through the lens of a girl and her make-believe pet. This 2014 Faber & Faber publication earned the 2012 Greenhouse Funny Prize and has established itself as a notable entry in children's literature about invisible companions.

Parents and young readers report this book resonates with children who have imaginary friends. Reviews note it works well as both a read-aloud and an early chapter book for ages 4-8. Liked: - Rhyming text that flows smoothly - Illustrations that complement the story - Humor that appeals to both children and adults - Length suitable for bedtime reading - Relatable portrayal of childhood imagination Disliked: - Some found the rhyming forced in places - A few readers thought the plot was too simple - Limited appeal beyond younger children Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (500+ ratings) Amazon UK: 4.7/5 (300+ ratings) Amazon US: 4.5/5 (50+ ratings) Notable review: "My 5-year-old loves this book so much she sleeps with it. The rhyming makes it fun to read aloud and the pictures help bring the invisible cat to life." - Amazon reviewer

Inspector Brunswick: The Case of the Missing Eyebrow by Angela Keoghan A young detective works with his invisible friend to solve mysteries in his house.

My Cat Looks Like My Dad by Thao Lam A child explores family bonds through observations of a pet cat that exists only in imagination.

Leo: A Ghost Story by Mac Barnett An invisible friend finds his place in the world when he meets a girl who believes in him.

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat An imaginary friend travels from his magical world to find the perfect real child match.

The Knuffle Bunny Trilogy by Mo Willems A series following a girl and her beloved stuffed bunny through daily adventures that blur reality and imagination.

🐱 Squishy McFluff was inspired by author Pip Jones' own daughter, who had an imaginary cat when she was young 🎨 Illustrator Ella Okstad is from Norway and has illustrated numerous beloved children's books, including the Claude series by Alex T. Smith 📚 The book launched a successful series with multiple sequels, including "Squishy McFluff: Supermarket Sweep!" and "Squishy McFluff: Meets Mad Nana Dot" ✍️ Pip Jones won the inaugural Greenhouse Funny Prize in 2012 for the Squishy McFluff manuscript before it was published 🎵 The rhyming verse structure used in the book helps develop phonological awareness in young readers, a crucial skill for learning to read