Two Bobbies: A True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship, and Survival

Category: Read-Alouds

Larson, Kirby, and Mary Nethery. Two Bobbies : A True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship, and Survival. Illus. by Jean Cassels.  Unpaged.  Walker & Company. 2008. ISBN 0-8027-9754-7.

Separated from their family in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Bobbi and Bob Cat, a dog and a cat who have bobbed tails and share a special friendship, traverse through New Orleans in an effort to survive. Together they encounter the devastation of the city as they roam the streets. Four months after their journey begins, the two bobbies are rescued by a construction worker and eventually taken to a temporary animal shelter in the city. The volunteers at the shelter recognize the special bond between the bobbies, and after a television appearance together, they are adopted into a loving family. Through the relationship between the two bobbies, this heartwarming story emphasizes the necessity of friendship for survival. Tender emotions are evoked when it is discovered that Bob Cat is blind, and he relies on Bobbi to guide him, especially during difficult times. Larson and Nethery vividly describe the setting and the relationship between the bobbies, and many children can relate the lessons of friendship presented to situations in their own lives. Colorful and realistic pictures grace the full pages of the book and draw the reader’s attention, adding unique appeal to this inspiring story of loyalty and trust.