June 18, 2019 8:08 am
GHOST CAT all began because, well, I have a ghost cat in my house. I never really see it—just darts and blurs out of my peripheral vision. There may be any number of logical explanations for this phenomena but I’m going with the ghost cat explanation.
We had a cat, a black cat, that showed up at our house years and years ago. It just appeared on our porch for several days in a row and eventually my wife, Teri, stated feeding it. I warned her if she fed it it would stick around. And she did, and it did. It came to us as an outdoor cat but eventually became an indoor/outdoor cat. If it had other places to be he was free to go there. He didn’t, preferring to live with us. And he did for about a dozen years. One day I hadn’t seen him around and went looking for him. I found him lying dead in the side yard.
When the cat died, my wife was five or six years into a diagnosis of young-onset Alzheimer’s disease. I had to tell her several times over the next few days that the cat had died. Each time it was like she was hearing it for the first time. Eventually she forgot that we even had had a cat.
Jumping ahead, a year or so after the cat died I ended up having to place Teri in an Adult Family Home. I had been her primary caregiver for seven years of decline but it got to the point I couldn’t do it anymore and still make a living, let alone have a life. I can’t remember if it happened before I placed Teri, but this is when I started noticing the “ghost cat appearances.” Maybe because I was home alone all of the sudden with no responsibilities.
It was always interesting and I don’t think I really believed I had a ghost cat, but I kept almost seeing it. So, naturally, as a writer, I thought I’d write a story about it. I had no idea what the story was, but I knew it would be different than anything I had written before. When I shared the first few drafts with my critique group, I was encouraged by their acceptance and suggestions. A year later, several more drafts, and they told me, “Kevan, this is your story,” which of course it was. I’d written it. “No,” they said, this is YOUR story. You have a ghost in YOUR house.” And what they meant is that ever since I had placed Teri in a home, I really was living with a ghost in my house. It became imperative at that realization that I get the story absolutely right. And I understood where exactly it needed to go. This was a story about loss, moving on, and the permission to love again while never giving up the love that came before.
Publisher’s Weekly said it well…”The heart, it seems, has room for everyone we have ever loved.”
It may also be notable that this is the first time I’ve jumped back into traditional medias to create the art for GHOST CAT. Every book before has been primarily digital. And the illustration style, obviously, is completely different than anything in previous books.
Initial thumbnail for spread 10-11.
First sketch for page 11.
Problem: page 10 and 11 were too similar. And besides that, the boy is not supposed to see the cat, yet he seems to be looking right at it.
Decided to keep page 10 as it was but change the angle on page 11 to more of a profile, putting the cat out of the sightline of the boy. This first rough sketch.
Created final pencil work (I would clean up in Photoshop.)
Created final illustration in Photoshop using pencil lines and the painted sources below.
These are the uncorrected colors and textures I used in coloring most of Ghost Cat.
Kevan, thank you so much for sharing the very personal story behind GHOST CAT–which was released June 11th!
You can win a copy here by leaving a comment below.
A winner will be selected at the end of the month.
Good luck!
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: Picture Books
Tags: Ghost Cat, Kevan Atteberry
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I enjoyed learning about this book and the story behind it. Looking forward to reading it! Thanks.
By rosecappelli on June 18, 2019 at 8:40 am
Thank you so very much for sharing this personal story. I marked this story to be read on Goodreads and will pick up a copy when I get back from vacation. I can’t wait. LOVE the art AND the story!
By Lynne Marie on June 18, 2019 at 8:42 am
Kevan. Thank you for sharing this personal story. The stories that matter the most have their roots in the depths of our hearts. It sounds like you found those roots, tended them. Here’s to the blossoming of a beautiful book with gorgeous artwork.
By Shutta Crum on June 18, 2019 at 8:48 am
How sweet and personal. Many children can relate to a lost pet and those that need to can use it to relate to a lost loved one. We’ll done.
By Jill on June 18, 2019 at 8:49 am
Wow! I can’t wait to read this story.
By fspoesy on June 18, 2019 at 8:53 am
What a beautiful, sad story. I have a ghost cat, too!
By Cedar Pruitt on June 18, 2019 at 8:54 am
Sounds like a hauntingly beautiful love story. Looking forward to reading it.
By Michele Helsel on June 18, 2019 at 8:54 am
I lost another cat today. I’ve had 14 others. I often feel one walking on my bed, but the cat that I have left is fast asleep. I believe it is “my ghost cat”, that often visits me. Sad but comforting. I would like to win one of your books very much! I will share it with my granddaughter!
By Mary ross on June 18, 2019 at 10:52 pm
Thank you for sharing your story. I’m looking forward to reading Ghost Cat.
By imagination4lf on June 18, 2019 at 8:55 am
Kevan – first off I am sorry for your pain and loss, at the same time, thank you, for telling your story and this story. I am looking forward to reading and sharing this with my grandchildren.
By Kim Pfennigwerth on June 18, 2019 at 9:48 am
My neighbours daughter had a Ghost Cat when her cat died. She said it plays in the garden and sleeps on her bed. I have a draft of a book called Ralphie Angel Cat.
By Becky H on June 18, 2019 at 8:56 am
Looks like a wonderful story and I love the illustration samples.
By andreesantini on June 18, 2019 at 8:59 am
We too, have a ghost cat. I need to read this as it resonates with my family. Thank you, thank you.
By Teresa Daffern on June 18, 2019 at 9:01 am
I think many of us feel the presence of those we’ve loved and lost. Thank you for sharing your personal story and for creating a book that will help both children and adults. I look forward to reading it.
By Judy Sobanski (@jkspburg) on June 18, 2019 at 9:08 am
I can’t wait to see the whole book and read the story. I love the illustrations. Great style and I love how it’s so simple without a lot of background but still moves the story. Congratulations, Kevan. I hope this book helps heal your heart.
By debmeyercreative on June 18, 2019 at 9:10 am
This touches me on so many levels. I am a huge cat person and I believe animals are here for us when we need them. I am so looking forward to getting this book. I am sure it will resonate with many readers. Thanks for sharing your story.
By Sherri Jones Rivers on June 18, 2019 at 9:15 am
This is a great story about how the book came to be. I how it’s related to your life. It makes me want to go out and by your book now and share it with my kids. Thanks!
By nataliecohn0258 on June 18, 2019 at 9:20 am
Thanks for sharing this story behind the story! I also loved seeing the sketches and how this all came together. Beautiful.
By Amy Newbold on June 18, 2019 at 9:21 am
Thank you for sharing the story behind the story. Maybe we all have ghost cats in our lives? I’m looking forward to reading the book, and savoring the art.
By Sue Heavenrich on June 18, 2019 at 9:22 am
What a beautiful story and book, Kevan. Copngratulations. Thank you for sharing. I believe the mind and heart can do many things.
By Karin Larson on June 18, 2019 at 9:25 am
Wow! This sounds like a very powerful story. Thanks so much for sharing this with us!
By Angie on June 18, 2019 at 9:28 am
I was following Kevin’s emotional journey. Can’t wait to read Ghost Cat.
By Maria Ashworth on June 18, 2019 at 9:28 am
I MUST read this book. And I loved your statement about giving oneself permission to love again while never giving up the love that came before. Best of luck.
By Arlene Schenker on June 18, 2019 at 9:31 am
I am sorry for all you’ve been going through, Kevan. Thank you for taking time to share Ghost Cat’s story with us. I’ve had one strong “ghost” experience, but that’s a long story for another day. 🙂
By Wendy Greenley on June 18, 2019 at 9:35 am
This story gave me shivers. Thanks for sharing it.
By lindaschueler on June 18, 2019 at 9:39 am
Kevan, How great that you found a creative way to share your personal pain and your reach for joy. Your book will be so helpful to so many children–and their parents.
By Mary Lou Johnson on June 18, 2019 at 9:41 am
Touching story, beautifully told.
By June Sengpiehl on June 18, 2019 at 9:45 am
I’ve had many spiritual experiences since my husband died and am moved by your story. I believe your cat’s spirit has come back to be with you. Maybe even to help you on your journey? I can’t wait to read your book!
By Ellen on June 18, 2019 at 9:47 am
Really touching story behind the story. Looking forward to reading this.
By Alicia on June 18, 2019 at 9:47 am
Beautiful, heart-warming story. Love your process too. Thank You!
By Judith Nasse on June 18, 2019 at 9:48 am
Can’t wait to read this heartfelt book
By Kathy Mazurowski on June 18, 2019 at 9:51 am
I look forward to reading this when it comes to our local library. Thank you for sharing the story behind it. I can relate…we watched my father-in-law take care of his wife. Even when he was diagnosed with cancer, she always came first. I followed his lead when I took care of my husband as he suffered through end-stage renal failure.
Gabrielle
By Butterfly Kisses and Silly Wishes on June 18, 2019 at 9:54 am
WOW wow wow! This is a must-have book! Love the concept, the story behind it, and the art… the art! Love the traditional pencil and backgrounds mixed with digital. This one’s going to be a huge hit, Kevan!
By Kim MacPherson on June 18, 2019 at 9:59 am
How extraordinarily special! You know, I can finally make some sense of a little darting shadow that I see from time to time. I too lost a cat some time ago that we adopted when she was 11. She lived until 17 years of age but we were actually caring for her in HER old age as she was going blind and deaf with vet visits, ointments, pills and soft food as she was losing teeth. Oh I see those darting shadows from time to time. I know she’s still with us. What a wonderful story is behind this book. So love to read this.
By Cat Soper on June 18, 2019 at 10:00 am
Thank you for sharing this.
By Joy Pitcairn on June 18, 2019 at 10:10 am
Thank you for sharing your personal story. A little animal spirit left behind makes puuurfect sense. I’ll be looking for this one! Congrats!
By danielledufayet on June 18, 2019 at 10:11 am
There’s room in our hearts for everyone we have ever loved. Thanks for spreading the word on this simple wisdom.
By Lucky Jo Boscarino on June 18, 2019 at 10:14 am
Thank you for sharing the story behind Ghost Cat. I can’t wait to read it.
I can relate to having a ghost cat as we had one when we moved to South Reading. I was pregnant with my son when Snaps, my cat of 23 1/2 years, died. We were still living in Windsor at the time… we moved to South Reading a few months later and my son was born that winter… a few weeks after he was born I began seeing a white cat crossing the living room headed toward my sons room… I thought I was losing it so didn’t say anything but when I did mention it, my husband and daughter had also seen Snaps, usually in the living room but sometimes in the family room in the cellar. I figure he was just checking on me to make sure I was okay and that the baby was fine
By saputnam on June 18, 2019 at 10:21 am
Love this!
By lauriekaiserwrites on June 18, 2019 at 11:44 am
Kevan, thank you for sharing this story. I’m reminded of my own old black cat, with tender memories.
By Carrie Tillotson on June 18, 2019 at 10:28 am
Such a beautiful story. Our pets are always in our hearts. Thanks for writing this.
By Sandie Vaisnoras on June 18, 2019 at 10:37 am
What a wonderful story about how your book The Ghost Cat came to be. Thank you for sharing and best of everything with the sales.
Phyllis
By phyllischerry.com on June 18, 2019 at 10:38 am
What a wonderful and universal theme we can all connect to 🙂
By Lydia Lukidis on June 18, 2019 at 10:43 am
A great post! Thank you for sharing!
By Sylvia Greach on June 18, 2019 at 10:43 am
Thanks so much for sharing your personal story with us. We’ve had ‘ghosts’ in our house, too, but no ghost cats! I look forward to reading it!
By Lisa on June 18, 2019 at 10:46 am
Would love this!
By supermario6 on June 18, 2019 at 10:49 am
I can’t wait to see your new book, Kevan! Teri is with you always. Your personal experience makes this story so special. Hugs!
By Jane Dippold on June 18, 2019 at 10:52 am
I LOVE this book!! Hearty congrats on such a beautifully told and heartfelt story, Kevan!! ❤ ❤
By mariagianferrari on June 18, 2019 at 10:53 am
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story with so much heart! Something we can all relate to and take comfort in 🙂
By jennifermaryg on June 18, 2019 at 10:56 am
Wow! Thank you, Kevan, for sharing. I look forward to reading Ghost Cat.
By Judy Y on June 18, 2019 at 10:58 am
Such a beautiful story. So kind of you to share it.
I’m pretty sure we had a ghost cat in our house too.
At least now I know someone else did too.
Can’t wait to read your story.
By Debbie Lodato on June 18, 2019 at 11:00 am
Going on my book order! Thank you for this behind-the-scenes glimpse into your heart.
By Nadine Poper on June 18, 2019 at 11:04 am
This is your story and it touched me in ways that I can hardly express in words. Since my mom passed I often get a whiff of her perfume, or in my own mind hearing her saying some sweet words of encouragement.
This is a book for any age and thank you for sharing this beautiful story which I can’t wait to read and share with others.
By Marcia Nass on June 18, 2019 at 11:07 am
I loved reading this interview. What a beautiful story. I can’t wait to see the book in person.
By Faith Pray on June 18, 2019 at 11:12 am
Thanks for sharing the personal backstory to this lovely book. Congrats on the great reviews. Can’t wait to read this one!
By Lori Alexander on June 18, 2019 at 11:16 am
Thank you for sharing your journey to this beautiful story filled with heart and emotion!
By debbeauchamp on June 18, 2019 at 11:16 am
Oh, Kevan. Thank you so much for sharing. This is simply beautiful. I am so sorry for your losses. We have had several four-legged family members wander in and out of our lives, all leaving their unique paw prints on our hearts. We lost our 10-month-old pug last week and I’m still raw. I will buy this book even if I don’t win it. Hugs to you. And thanks, Tara.
By tiffanydickinson on June 18, 2019 at 11:23 am
Kevan, wow. Simply wow–that you were able to turn an extraordinary difficult time into such a beautiful story. I’m drawn to stories of loss. Loss is a theme that shows up in my writing a lot. I must get this book. I must see how you made this work. Many congratulations on finding joy in the difficult and continuing your work. I hope this book wins the awards I’m dreaming for it.
By Linda Mitchell on June 18, 2019 at 11:28 am
Reblogged this on Tiffany Dickinson and commented:
Hello Readers,
After losing our 10-month-old pug last week, this story particularly speaks to me.
I’ve heard Kevan Attebery read. He is a sweet man and a talented artist.
-Tiffany
By tiffanydickinson on June 18, 2019 at 11:28 am
What a wonderful story–thank you for sharing it with us and your readers.
By Buffy Silverman on June 18, 2019 at 11:34 am
What a precious story and important message to share with any age! Congratulations, Kevan, on creating a picture book that will encourage lasting love forever!
By Suzanne Lewis on June 18, 2019 at 11:34 am
Chills reading this story behind the story. Cannot wait to read and share GHOST CAT.
By Kellie DuBay Gillis on June 18, 2019 at 11:37 am
We had a ghost cat in the house we moved into, in the basement. It went past my legs and my cat saw it, too. I saged and it went away.
By Natasha Wing on June 18, 2019 at 11:42 am
What a moving story. And so touching to hear how you took a personal real life situation into account to write a story for all. I am do sorry about your wife’s diagnosis and the loss of your cat.
By Keila Dawson on June 18, 2019 at 11:42 am
Thanks for sharing your personal, heartfelt story. I am a cat lover and while I have never had a ghost cat, I relate to the idea and can’t wait to read the story!
By lauriekaiserwrites on June 18, 2019 at 11:43 am
It sounds like a beautiful story. I can’t wait to read it!
By Wendi Silvano on June 18, 2019 at 11:47 am
Very moving – thank you for sharing. I look forward to reading Ghost Cat!
By Claire Bobrow on June 18, 2019 at 11:51 am
So sorry for your losses, Kevan. Thank you for sharing your experiences with others. The story sounds just beautiful! I hope the process was a cathartic one for you.
My mom has Alzheimer’s and I know the heartbreak. And, losing a beloved pet is losing a family member as well.
Funny, but I sometimes think I see a white blur rush by…my 16 1/2 year old Millie, my Maltese sweetie.
By Karen Miller on June 18, 2019 at 11:56 am
Thanks for sharing the “behind the scenes” story for this tale!! Looking forward to reading “Ghost Cat” 🙂
By seschipper on June 18, 2019 at 11:59 am
I love this author/illustrator and really enjoyed seeing his process. Love you, Kev! 🙂 I already own this book and LOVE it but I would love to win a copy for my granddaughter!
By phyllisharris50 on June 18, 2019 at 12:05 pm
I want more…Thank you sharing your poignant premise. The heart has a way of releasing grief in ways we don’t always understand. Congrats!
By Martha on June 18, 2019 at 12:09 pm
Enjoyed reading this enormously.
By Ernie Tuesday on June 18, 2019 at 12:10 pm
Hi, Kevan, thanks for sharing your touching story behind GHOST CAT. I believe your book will bring comfort. Take care.
By Manju B. Howard (@ManjuBeth) on June 18, 2019 at 12:21 pm
Interesting story and thanks for sharing how you landed on final drawings and what it took to work this story out.
By Sheri Radovich on June 18, 2019 at 12:24 pm
Thank you for sharing your emotional story. My cat Mayberry went missing six days ago, and I’m absolutely heartbroken.
By Cortney Benvenuto on June 18, 2019 at 12:28 pm
Thanks for sharing this beautiful story. Sorry for your losses, and what a wonderful way to turn the pain into something inspiring- I look forward to reading it. I’ve lost a parent to dementia, and recently lost our dog of 13 1/2 years, but they’re still very present for us.
By Lisa Billa on June 18, 2019 at 12:30 pm
I love that this story picked you. You are the right person to tell it, and it feels like Elizabeth Gilberts’ BIG MAGIC.
By Rinda Beach on June 18, 2019 at 12:31 pm
This is such an important story for all of us who have lost someone we love. Beautiful job, Kevan.
By Rebecca Van Slyke on June 18, 2019 at 1:00 pm
Kevan, very tender and moving. Thank you for sharing and for reaching out to all of us. Beautiful drawings.
By Maria M. Barbella on June 18, 2019 at 1:08 pm
I just checked it out of the library a few days ago and was very touched by the story. I would love to have a copy of this amazing book. Congratulations!
By Bettie Boswell on June 18, 2019 at 1:14 pm
Beautiful Kevin.
By Laura Clement on June 18, 2019 at 1:23 pm
Looking forward to reading this story!
By laura516 on June 18, 2019 at 1:32 pm
Recently I’ve had my own pet ghosts experiences. Seems like ‘Ghost Cat’ is the book for that universal feeling of loss and remembering it’s ok to move on, and find love again. Can’t wait to get my hands on this book! Bravo Kevan!!!
By Chris Harrington on June 18, 2019 at 1:38 pm
Wow. Thanks for sharing your story. I can’t wait to read the book.
By Debra Kempf Shumaker on June 18, 2019 at 1:38 pm
Whoa. So intriguing. I can’t wait to read it!
By Lenora Biemans on June 18, 2019 at 1:40 pm
Kevan has a sweet soul that loves and shares. He was as gifted in high school but finding true love nurtured his gift and freed it for all the world to share.
By Elizabeth MacIntosh on June 18, 2019 at 1:50 pm
Thanks for sharing the story behind this lovely book!
By Teresa Traver on June 18, 2019 at 2:00 pm
Wow! What a moving story. Getting a little weepy here; I can’t wait to read this one — and weep some more.
By Gabi Snyder on June 18, 2019 at 2:09 pm
Thank you so much for sharing your amazing story!!!
By LeeAnn Jensen on June 18, 2019 at 2:11 pm
Thank you for sharing this amazing process and how you’ve coped with so much, and yet, have emerged with a way to live, know love on so many levels, and also be able to work. Kudos as well to your critique group….
By Gail Hedrick on June 18, 2019 at 2:16 pm
Sounds like an amazing story. Can’t wait to read it.
By Beth Schneider on June 18, 2019 at 2:37 pm
Beautiful story.
By Kim Erickson on June 18, 2019 at 2:40 pm
We also had a ghost cat! When we started a whole house renovation on our historic house, both my husband and I started seeing our ghost cat. Love that there’s now a story celebrating love and life.
By Heather Henderson on June 18, 2019 at 2:55 pm
Thank you for sharing…that’s quite a journey!
By Brenda Huante on June 18, 2019 at 3:11 pm
Thank you for sharing your story Kevan! ((Hugs))
By pollyrenner on June 18, 2019 at 3:17 pm
Oh, what a lovely behind the scenes story and the process of getting to the heart of it. Thank you for sharing.
By Gloria Amescua on June 18, 2019 at 3:23 pm
What an amazing journey to create your book. Can’t wait to read it.
By shirley301 on June 18, 2019 at 3:33 pm
This was so touching to read. We are currently struggling with the care of my mother and it really hit home.
By Deborah Sauper on June 18, 2019 at 3:37 pm
What a great story behind your book. Can’t wait to read it.
By shirley301 on June 18, 2019 at 3:37 pm
Your book sounds amazing. Cant wait to read it. Thank you for sharing your touching story with us. And thank you Tara for finding these stories to share with us.
By Mirka Hokkanen on June 18, 2019 at 3:44 pm
A fascinating and moving story!
By womanwifemotherchild on June 18, 2019 at 3:57 pm
Thank you for sharing your story Kevan. Loved seeing the illustration process. Looking forward to reading!
By Michelle on June 18, 2019 at 4:07 pm
What a touching story behind this book – I look forward to reading it!
By Sandy Perlic on June 18, 2019 at 4:15 pm
Kev, I can’t wait to see this book and think of you, and of Teri. xoxo
By katieifw on June 18, 2019 at 4:20 pm
A lovely, child-friendly approach to such a difficult, bittersweet situation.
By Robin on June 18, 2019 at 4:46 pm
As a writer and illustrator of primarily cat related stories and caretaker (no one owns a cat) of 10 feral cats this story particularly touched me. Always great to hear the story behind the story.
By Stephen S. Martin on June 18, 2019 at 4:50 pm
So sorry to hear about your wife. I’m looking forward to reading your story and it will be even more meaningful knowing the story behind it.
By colleenrkosinski on June 18, 2019 at 4:51 pm
Beautiful story
By Cynthia Way on June 18, 2019 at 4:51 pm
What a poignant back-story for a moving book that can help so many kids (and adults) through loss. I can’t wait to read it, Kevan.
By Val McCammon on June 18, 2019 at 4:55 pm
Thanks for the interview, Kevan. I am so sorry for the loss of your wife and the little cat she brought into your life. Beautiful book—the authenticity of the story shines through the artwork.
By Kirsten Pendreigh on June 18, 2019 at 5:14 pm
Thank you for sharing your story with us. I can’t wait to read Ghost Cat
By M.A. Cortez on June 18, 2019 at 5:43 pm
I love this story. Thank you for sharing the backstory Kevan. ❤
By Darshana Khiani on June 18, 2019 at 5:44 pm
I have always loved Ghost Cat, now I love it even more. Thank you for sharing this, Kevan.
By Judy Bryan on June 18, 2019 at 5:45 pm
I love that you shared this with us, Kevin. A compelling and heartfelt backstory that has lead you to your heart story. Thank you for sharing it.
By desertattitude on June 18, 2019 at 6:09 pm
Thank you for sharing your story behind the story. I so look forward to reading it.
By Kathy Sholtys on June 18, 2019 at 6:11 pm
What a wonderful, and you’re right, sad story. I’m looking forward to reading this story.
By BARBARA SUE SENENMAN on June 18, 2019 at 7:42 pm
I can’t wait to read this story! I, too, had a ghost cat visit me.
By lyn martin on June 18, 2019 at 8:29 pm
I love Kevan’s work and have been so moved by his story and his love for his wife! Can’t wait to read Ghost Cat.
By Maria Oka on June 18, 2019 at 9:03 pm
Thank you so much for sharing your story, Kevan, in both of its forms.
By Melanie Ellsworth on June 18, 2019 at 9:21 pm
Thank you for sharing the story of your wife and of the cat. It makes it so much more personal and makes one want to read the book.
By cottagelilacs on June 18, 2019 at 9:26 pm
This is beautiful — I can’t wait to see where your writing journey continues to take you!
By Shauna Woodall on June 18, 2019 at 9:59 pm
Wow. What an amazing way to process life experience. Thanks for sharing.
By Jane Heitman Healy on June 18, 2019 at 10:10 pm
Kevan, what a moving story. I want to read Ghost Cat and give copies to my friends who have lost pets and people they loved.
By Susan Twiggs on June 18, 2019 at 10:41 pm
Thank you for sharing the heartfelt thoughts.
By Jeff Christiansen on June 18, 2019 at 10:51 pm
Kevan, I will always remember following your posts of Teri on Facebook. Your love for her is palpable. And GHOST CAT is like no other book out there. It sure has caught my attention.
By kathydoherty1 on June 18, 2019 at 10:54 pm
This book made me cry for all the right reasons. It’s sweet, special, and so filled with love, just like this amazing man! Thank you, Tara, for giving this book the space to be seen and recognized for all that it is. I will treasure my copy forever.
By Deb Lund on June 18, 2019 at 11:04 pm
Thank you for sharing your story.
By Carolyn Currier on June 18, 2019 at 11:59 pm
Kevan, I already want to read Ghost Cat, the sequel. And the prequel. Thank you for sharing the story behind the story.
By Hillary Homzie on June 19, 2019 at 12:01 am
The best stories come from real stories. Thank you for sharing this story with us!
By Erika Henkart on June 19, 2019 at 12:54 am
What a story. Wish Teri could read it anyhow. Cats come to our lives one way or another and in your case, that cat brings/gives you a story to write about. You are a writer of many visions and this one is your own. God bless you.
By aliciaminor on June 19, 2019 at 3:26 am
I love seeing the rough sketches!
By sarahheturadny on June 19, 2019 at 6:38 am
Kevan, I had chills reading about your journey for this story. My mother had Alzheimer’s and its is the long goodbye! Can’t wait to get a copy!
By Writer on the run on June 19, 2019 at 6:53 am
Thank you for sharing your story and a piece of your life with us. Can’t wait to read this!
By Mary Miller on June 19, 2019 at 7:58 am
Incredibly moving story behind the story. Thank you for sharing.
By Sara Fajardo on June 19, 2019 at 8:14 am
Loved reading about your journey and how you captured the heart of your story. I can’t wait to read Ghost Cat!
By Kristy Ryan on June 19, 2019 at 8:17 am
What a fascinating story about a fascinating story. If we had a ghost cat at my house, I would chase it and probably crash into things and knock stuff over. Then Mom would call me the name Psycho-Dog. Plus if she saw the cat, she would burn down the house and we would move.
Love and licks,
Cupcake
By Genevieve Petrillo on June 19, 2019 at 9:01 am
Looking forward to reading this. I’m curious to see how the color palette, which is lovely, enhances the tone. Thanks for sharing this important message. It’s coming at the right time for my family.
By Mary Worley on June 19, 2019 at 9:13 am
Thanku for sharing such a personal, heartfelt story. The cat, so loved and missed is “one” with your still loved spouse…so lovely. I would love to read the completed story.
By Patricia Ann Buckley De Hasn on June 19, 2019 at 9:35 am
Thank you for all the kind words and your shared stories and experiences, everyone. This story was so important to me I am thrilled it has touched others as I hoped it would. Much love!
By kevan atteberry on June 19, 2019 at 9:53 am
OH, my, Kevan. What a beautiful book rendered around a personal, very hard, hard loss. My dad contracted early onset Alzheimer’s at 58 and died at 68. Ty for sharing this story. Love the art in this book. It is haunting.
By Kathy Halsey on June 19, 2019 at 10:15 am
Knowing and caring about Teri and the journey she and Kevan had in her later life makes this story more tender and gentle. The illustrations are soft and delightful. They give us a beautiful trail through the story that helps us understand life better.
By Liz Blake on June 19, 2019 at 12:23 pm
Thank you for sharing your very personal book journey. It sounds unforgettable.
By Dee Knabb on June 19, 2019 at 1:09 pm
Thanks for sharing your process on this story. I look forward to reading it.
By Christine Pinto on June 19, 2019 at 1:25 pm
What an amazing story, I def want to read this one!
By rbkrackeler on June 19, 2019 at 1:48 pm
I cannot wait to read this book! The art looks delightful and the meaning behind the story really touches my heart. Thank you so much, Kevan, for sharing your personal story with us all.
By Aimee Satterlee on June 19, 2019 at 2:06 pm
I am adding this to my TBR! 💕
By Veronica on June 19, 2019 at 3:58 pm
Oh my goodness what a beautiful story!
By stacyallen on June 19, 2019 at 6:19 pm
This is such a great post. For the meaningful story behind the story, for the WIP examples and because I love cats and ghosts. I can’t wait to read this book.
By Kaye Baillie on June 19, 2019 at 9:07 pm
Wow, great story, and beautiful art!
By Lynn Becker on June 19, 2019 at 9:16 pm
Kevin,
You are a courageous man for sharing such a personal story. I picture you as a warm and smiley guy, able to your story through a cat, a ghost cat at that!
By Patti Ranson on June 19, 2019 at 9:17 pm
Thanks Tara and Kevan for the great interview. I love the look at the illustration process. The book sounds wonderful – congratulations!
By Mary Warth on June 19, 2019 at 9:59 pm
Kevan, I’m so sorry your wife has Alzheimers. It’s such a horrible disease.
I’m glad you have your critique group for support, and your writing. Congrats on your new book; I requested Ghost Cat from the library.
By Darcee A. Freier on June 19, 2019 at 11:22 pm
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful and personal love story.
By Dawn Prochovnic on June 20, 2019 at 12:00 am
Lovely and bittersweet. Thanks for sharing.
By Varda on June 20, 2019 at 2:15 am
The story behind the story is moving. Thank you for sharing. As a writer only, I also love getting a glimpse into the process of an author/illustrator.
By teacherwriteracker on June 20, 2019 at 10:20 am
Thank you for sharing your story, Kevan. I can’t wait to read Ghost Cat. I love it already!!
By Lisa Riddiough on June 20, 2019 at 11:41 am
Kevan, thank you for sharing this story. I can’t wait to read this book. Talk about putting your heart into a story.
By Anne on June 20, 2019 at 6:38 pm
My mother-in-law had Alzheimer’s and eventually no longer recognized any of her grown children. However, she could remember them as if they were still children that she needed to care for. I hope writing Ghost Cat provided solace and release for you. I look forward to reading it.
By Pauline Tso on June 20, 2019 at 7:31 pm
Kevan, this is a spooky and sweet story, and I look forward to reading it. I also can appreciate your caregiving of a loved one with Alzheimer’s as I am one of my dad’s caregivers and have been for 8 years so far. All the best to you.
By Lynn Davidson on June 20, 2019 at 7:47 pm
Wow, what a touching story.
By Brenda Harris on June 20, 2019 at 9:31 pm
I would love to win a copy for sure, but I fully intend to purchase at least two copies, one for me and one for my grandchildren, because we have cats who are present and some of our past cats occasionally make themselves felt as well! Look forward to reading it, Kevan!
By 58chilihed13 on June 20, 2019 at 9:43 pm
Kevan, thank you for sharing your story – the real life one and the picture book one, lovingly intertwined.
By Patricia Toht on June 20, 2019 at 11:35 pm
It sounds and looks like a beautiful and necessary book with a great heart. Thank you, and congratulations, Kevan.
By Janet McDonnell on June 21, 2019 at 11:20 am
Beautiful. Personal. Real. Thank you for posting.
By Amy Benoit on June 21, 2019 at 6:52 pm
Thank you for sharing this personal and touching story. My first cat also came to me… i was workng 3 – 11 evening shift and would find her waiting for me on my porch when i got home. I was not supposed to have pets but i would let her in! Later, some neighbors moved away & said they could not take the cat, asked me to keep it – and had already talked to my landlord for me! This sounds like a must-read, very touching story.
By authoryvonafast on June 22, 2019 at 7:25 am
So many wonderful messages and stories shared here since my last thank you, Must thank you,thank you, thank you, EVERYBODY, once again.
By kevan atteberry on June 22, 2019 at 5:32 pm
This story could not escape being beautiful. Thank you, Kevan. Thank you for the story and for sharing the equally beautiful story behind it.
By Stephanie Shaw on June 22, 2019 at 8:43 pm
I want to read this story! Thank you for sharing this story and opening your heart to this special cat. I believe that rescued animals never forget and are forever grateful.
By Kay on June 23, 2019 at 12:05 pm
What an awesome story idea! I loved seeing the sketches and art process behind the illustrations as well. Nice work, Kevan! Can’t wait to read it. 🙂
By Shannon M Anderson on June 24, 2019 at 5:46 am
A very beautiful story and I will be sure to look for Ghost Cat.
By Sharon Lillie on June 24, 2019 at 7:20 am
I love the idea for this story.
By lillyarts on June 24, 2019 at 8:46 am
Beautiful story and book, Kevan. Ah, you know how I feel. xo
By Wendy Wahman on June 24, 2019 at 10:33 am
Thanks to Kevan for being so open. Sounds like a beautiful story–can’t wait to read it!
By kirabigwood on June 24, 2019 at 2:06 pm
Your story is genuine. I cannot wait to read Ghost Cat.
By Robin Perkins on June 24, 2019 at 8:21 pm
Interesting to see the morphing of the illustration.
By Arleen on June 24, 2019 at 9:52 pm
I can’t wait to read this, and I love the behind-the-scenes origin story of the story.
By Lou Aamodt on June 25, 2019 at 8:01 am
Oh wow–it sounds so full of heart. Having experienced a loved one with Alzheimer’s that connection also resonated with me. Congratulations and I look forward to reading it.
By Elizabeth Curry on June 26, 2019 at 7:33 pm
Your story is incredibly moving, Kevan, thank you for sharing. On a lighter note, I think both of our current cats are “ghost cats” as they seem to appear and disappear out of nowhere (or maybe they’re “teleporting” cats?) I look forward to reading your book!
By Dana Atnip on June 27, 2019 at 1:28 pm
Fascinating!
By Karan Greene on June 28, 2019 at 6:44 pm
Wow, I have a ghost cat in my house too. I can’t wait to read this book. Thank you for sharing your story.
By Paige on June 29, 2019 at 7:31 am
I enjoyed learning the origins of this work. I believe it took a lot of courage and introspection to find this story inside of yourself. Thank you for being so brave.
By Patti Cake on June 30, 2019 at 12:30 pm
I enjoyed learning about the story behind this book. Looking forward to reading it! Thanks.
By Judy Pressler on July 2, 2019 at 10:38 am
Wow. Hearing both your personal journey to this story and the illustration mechanics you employed have me truly looking forward to having this book in my hands. Thank you for sharing.
By kcareywrites on July 10, 2019 at 10:41 am
I love hearing about your story -very sweet and tender. Thanks for sharing!
By danielledufayet on July 30, 2019 at 10:39 am
Absolutely lovely, heart-rending story! I love the interesting angles on illustrations that serve to pull the reader further into the story. Excellently done!
By Connie Newbauer on January 5, 2022 at 6:31 pm