Unlikely animal friendships bloom in 2 children’s books
The Adventures of Marshmallow and Friends: Marshmallow’s New Home by Katy Chiu-Zipperlen. Marshmallow and Friends Press, 2026. Softcover, 35 pages.
When a tiny kitten named Marshmallow arrives in her new home, she is more than a little anxious. There are already two other cats and a dog in residence, making Marshmallow wonder how she will ever fit in and be welcomed into the household. However, summoning courage as she explores and meets her new animal companions, Marshmallow begins to feel at home.
In this delightful picture book aimed at children ages 3 to 9, author Katy Chiu-Zipperlen looks at the concepts of kindness, meeting new friends, and what makes a home. Based on animals in the author’s life, The Adventures of Marshmallow and Friends is a gentle book that teaches important lessons from one tiny cat’s point of view.
Coco and Stephen, Together Forever: How a Kitten and Bunny Became Best Friends by Beth Stern with Margaret McNamara, with illustrations by Joanie Stone. Random House Studio, 2026. Hardcover, 40 pages.
Things are not going well for two small creatures in need of help. Coco, a kitten at a shelter, and Stephen, a domestic bunny found in a forest, are hopeful about their future when they find themselves in foster care with Beth Stern, the author of Coco and Stephen, Together Forever: How a Kitten and Bunny Became Best Friends. When the two see each other through a glass door in Beth’s home, it is love at first sight.
As this unlikely friendship blossoms, Coco and Stephen become fast friends in this tale of love and acceptance. Based on a true story, this lovely book is aimed at an audience of 4 to 9 years old. In addition to the story, Beth closes the book with some age-appropriate information on fostering and animal rescue.
Are you the author or publisher of a book about animals that you would like considered for review? Please send the details to editor@bestfriends.org.
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