Scaredy Cat

Genre

Personal Growth

Age range(s)

Publisher

OUP Children's Books

ISBN

9781382062954

Format

Paperback

Published

02-07-2026

Synopsis

Gabe and his rescue cat help each other to overcome their shyness in this heartwarming tale from the author of the bestselling Marv series! Gabe is a very shy child, especially at school.

But when Gabe's parents adopt a cat who is even shyer than Gabe, everything begins to change. Whilst the rest of the family's attempts to engage with their new pet only send it into hiding, it is Gabe who senses what the cat, Art, needs. Gabe sits quietly reading his favourite comic and slowly, slowly the cat comes out of hiding to join him.

As Gabe and Art bond, both grow in confidence and assurance. So much so that when it is Gabe's turn to stand up in front of the class and tell them about his favourite book, he surprises himself, and his schoolmates, with his newfound confidence.

Spread from Scaredy Cat, illustrated by Ken Wilson-Max

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Reviews

Linda

Scaredy Cat has a lovely message at its heart about finding the courage to try something new and gradually growing in confidence. When a nervous child meets an equally frightened cat, their developing friendship gives them both the encouragement they need to be a little braver.

I really liked the idea behind the story, particularly the way it shows that confidence doesn't suddenly appear - sometimes having someone beside you can make unfamiliar or scary things feel much more manageable. The friendship between the child and cat is sweet, and the colourful illustrations bring plenty of warmth to the story.

It didn't completely capture us in the way some picture books do, but the message about courage, friendship and growing in confidence is a worthwhile one and gives lots of opportunities for conversations with young children about their own worries and trying new things. A nice, reassuring read.

Picture book / Reviewed by Linda Canning, teacher

Louise

Scaredy Cat by Alex Falase-Koya follows Gabe, a shy child who struggles with confidence, especially at school. When his family adopts a rescue cat called Art, who is even shyer than he is, Gabe begins to understand how it feels to be nervous and overwhelmed. As their growing friendship grows, it becomes clear that everyone has different fears and worries.

The book provides a safe and relatable way to discuss shyness and helps young readers understand that it is okay to take small steps towards new challenges. The story also offers opportunities to develop speaking, listening and literacy skills. Children can discuss how Gabe and Art change throughout the story, identify key moments that helped build their confidence, and make connections to their own experiences.

Scaredy Cat could also be used as a starting point for writing activities such as diary entries, character descriptions or recounts of a time when pupils showed bravery. It also encourages a growth mindset by demonstrating that confidence develops over time through patience, support and positive experiences. As a result, Scaredy Cat is a valuable classroom resource that promotes resilience, self-belief and emotional wellbeing while engaging young readers with a warm and heart-warming story.

Picture book / Reviewed by Louise Gahan, teacher