Review: Ziva the Great

 

ZIVA THE GREAT

By Cindy J. Vanous

Children’s Fiction: Ages 6-12

Publication Date: 21 October, 2025

32 Pages

SYNOPSIS

Ziva the Great is a heartfelt picture book for older children about a Maine Coon cat learning to trust again and a quiet girl named Elsie who understands gentle things. Ziva is loving with her family but startles easily around new people-until Elsie arrives. The girl moves softly, speaks softly, and never frightens her.

Their friendship grows through small moments of closeness and calm. Together, they show young readers that healing takes time, trust can return, and even quiet hearts can find comfort again. Perfect for ages 8-12, this emotional animal story supports social-emotional learning (SEL) and is ideal for parents, teachers, counselors, and classrooms. Themes include emotional healing, resilience, friendship, overcoming fear, and the bond between children and animals.

Ziva the Great by Cindy J. Vanous and illusrated by Rebeckah Gerstner is a lovely children’s book that is about emotional healing, having patience, and the bond that can be created between an animal and a child.

Ziva the Great is about a Maine Coon cat aptly named Ziva. Ziva has a history all her own that has made her wary of people. She’s very protective of herself and can be overly cautious. Ziva eventually meets Elsie, who is a quiet little girl who seems to understand that Ziva needs some patience and space to feel safe. In Ziva the Great, the reader will come to understand the importance of this recognition of a kindred spirit and how patience and empathy can go a long way in healing.

In a world where “loud” bravery is lauded, it was great to read a story where “quiet” bravery is just as important. Animals, like people, can go through traumatic experiences and this story showcases the importance of looking past not-so-favorable behaviors to what is really underneath. The hurt, the fear - sometimes all a person or animal needs is patience.

I recommend this read to people of all ages because you’re never too young or too old to learn aboiut empathy. We’d all be way better for it.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cindy J. Vanous is a Texas children’s author who writes heartfelt picture books filled with vintage charm, hope, and imagination. Her stories, from a lost puppy at the North Pole to a little ghost in Terlingua, Texas, celebrate courage, belonging, and the magic found in everyday moments.

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