ETHAN AND THE STRAYS
The Story
As a night watchman for nearly three decades, I befriended many cats. I took cats home as pets, domesticated kittens for adoption, and trapped cats for neutering and vaccinations. My experience with felines led to the plot of Ethan and the Strays.
On the way to school, Ethan falls in love with three stray kittens and wonders how he can help them as winter nears. His father has already stated, “no pets!” But a nearby vet guides Ethan and his older brother as they trap the kittens and transport them to the animal clinic.
Young readers will discover interesting facts about cats, the plight of strays, and the contemporary method of handling them called trap-neuter-return (TNR).
Hatem Aly, an illustrator of many celebrated books, dramatizes this story with his bright-colored, whimsical art.
Ethan and the Strays is my third book and will be published with Simon & Schuster in October 2023.
Reviews & Honors
​Reviews:
“The author, John Sullivan, has rescued dozens of cats in Chicago, his hometown. And his commitment and care and love for cats comes through in every line of this tender and memorable picture book.” –Paula W., VP, Publisher
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“Sullivan’s outstanding story and Aly’s warm, expressive mixed media illustrations seamlessly unite to offer an age-appropriate look at what can be done to address the cyclical issue of stray animals. Back matter includes additional resources as well as detailed steps on how to trap, neuter, and return homeless cats. A demonstration of individual responsibility, this loving and conscientious story deserves a home in all library collections.”
–School Library Journal, 10/1/23
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“With touching sensitivity, Sullivan (Stanley’s Secret) creates a story about a child responsibly caring for stray felines. The depth of their (the brothers) connection is one of the story’s quiet delights—joins the trap-neuter-return movement. Ethan’s bright eyes reflect a serious eagerness, and Sam exudes pragmatism and patience in a book that offers an affectionately realized vision of what one kid can do.”
–Publishers Weekly, 8/21/2023
