Velvet Paws Children's Picture Book

“This book is lovingly written for any child who needs a friend. Therefore, this book is written for every child, now and forever.“ 

Author and Charlottesville resident Cathy Stapleton experienced an event years ago which inspired her to write and publish her new children’s book, Velvet Paws to help kids who feel isolated and overwhelmed. 

During a nursing school rotation, she observed a pediatric surgery. When the two-hour surgery was completed, she asked the nurse if the young child’s family was waiting to see him. The nurse informed her that he had no visitors and had been in the hospital for over two weeks.

In her attempt to process how frightened this little boy must have felt, she thought of her cat Oreo, who had an affinity for children and wished she could bring him to the hospital to comfort and calm this young patient. That was not possible. Her book, Velvet Paws, was born out of this experience.

Velvet Paws is a story about a little cat and a fairy who sneak into the local hospital to visit the children and encourage them to share their feelings.

“It is an unfortunate reality that most parents cannot be with their hospitalized child 24/7 due to other life demands. There are several hours these patients spend by themselves. In addition, there are many other children who feel alone and helpless due to other circumstances beyond their control,” says Stapleton. 

Stapleton feels strongly about the important connection between mental and physical health. “I would like my book Velvet Paws to serve as a source of comfort, humor and a reminder to express their feelings in the hope that all children will find their voice."