I really enjoyed how this book used a cat to illustrate how nicknames, especially when they relate to physical features rather than more substantial qualities, can be harmful. I think this message will resonate with many children, especially young girls who are constantly told that their physical appearance matters more than their intelligence. This is the type of book I definitely want to have included in my children’s library.

FIONA AND THE PERCULIAR PRAISE really hit me unexpectedly. I went into the story expecting to read about a prissy little kitty, but I came out of it thinking about how I talk to my own daughter.

Fiona is a sweet- no brave!- cat who is always called sweet little things when she actually wants to be recognized for her bravery, strength, and wisdom.

The artwork is very delicate and whimsical- it really feels inspired by Fiona's fluffy white fur.

The story is very fun, especially helping young readers learn about new adjectives. It's written in an easy language that young readers can pick up and read quickly.

I really enjoyed this, especially when I think about my own daughter and the praise that I give her. This book feels like it's aimed towards little girls (my five year old daughter certainly enjoyed it!) and the words we commonly use to describe girls- pretty, sweet, adorable. It was really fun to see how Fiona also enjoyed words such as brave, strong, and smart.

Gorgeous artwork, not a very engaging story. As a librarian, former publisher and bookseller, I wouldn't recommend.

I LOVED this book! It was super cute and the concept is something I always think about and try to enact when I speak to my children. We frequently compliment kids on every looks but never their wit! It's not all about looks. It’s about brains too! This is a cute little book that will definitely be going in my kids collection when it comes out in a physical copy!

What is sweeter than Queen Fiona protecting her family and taking care or her community?! It is such a heartwarming story of how we see ourselves and others beyond their looks. What is truly valued about each of us and what makes us special. The illustrations are phenomenal and the colors are gorgeous. What a sweet, fun story to read for cat loves and families alike.

Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC and the opportunity to review and to the Rennie Dyball for such a sweet story.

A very sweet children's book about a little cat named Fiona. I really loved the illustrations, and my child was also delighted. I definitely recommend it!

Fiona and the Peculiar Praise is a charming and insightful picture book that follows the daily adventures of Fiona, a beautiful apartment cat who notices that her family consistently praises her for her appearance rather than her efforts or accomplishments. Through Fiona’s confusion and frustration, the story offers a subtle yet powerful commentary on the way society often reduces people to their looks, overlooking their hard work and character. With warmth and beautiful illustrations, this book delivers an important message in a way that is accessible to young readers while resonating deeply with older audiences. I would definitely recommend this picture book for teachers, as, while the message may be a little on-the-nose, it's easy to grasp for them I'm sure. I would certainly recommend this picture book to educators/teachers; while its message may be somewhat direct and on-the-nose, its clarity makes it especially effective for classroom discussions and easy for students to understand! Plus, again, the illustrations are ADORABLE!

I cackled. The illustrations are a riot, and using a cat as a vehicle for this message (which managed to not be the least bit didactic while also being VERY on point) was brilliant. Fiona is sick and tired of people only noticing her appearance. She wants acknowledgement for her many finely-honed skills. The variety of facial expressions really adds to the sense of Fiona's frustration with being essentially *drumroll please* cat-called and reduced to her physical attributes.

What a treat. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

ARC Read - May 2025
(review can also be found on Goodreads. @soeixa22)
Fiona and the Peculiar Praise is an entertaining picture book that follows a curious cat named Fiona.
My favourite thing in this book had to be the BEAUTIFUL illustrations. They drew me in from the cover, all the way until the final page, and I'm sure they have the power to catch the eye of any kid!
Simple but hooking writing, a lovable cat, and fun, humorous writing - perfect for a kids' book! This could become a bedtime favourite or a perfect book to read in a kindergarten classroom, as the writing is both age-appropriate and light.
If I had any suggestion, it would be to try reading the book aloud to see if it's ideal for a smooth read-aloud experience, as I found I'm some parts that this was a bit difficult. That has to be one of the MOST important things for a book of this age group since lots of kids have the stories read to them.
Overall, this is a perfect book for any small kids to be reading! I'm sure it will do great!

I read this story to my girls (7 and 4). My 4 yr old loved the kitty because it reminded her of our own cat. My 7 yr old enjoyed the scene with the cat and mouse and thought it was a smart plan. She realized that the cat wanted to be more than just her looks.

I appreciate the message of this book, that we are more than what we look like. It provided a good conversation started between my 7 yr old and I to talk about the importance of what's inside and not just our outsides.

#FionaandthePeculiarPraise #NetGalley

A nice story about the words we use to talk about girls. I'll read this story to my students for sure.
Loved the illustrations too.

Fiona is a kitty in an apartment complex. She lives with her mom, dad, an sister Lou. Everyone loves Fiona, but they seem to focus on her beauty. She is frustrated because that is not all she is. Finally, someone recognizes more of her strengths.
The message of this book is important and the illustrations are beautiful. i love the little details like the freckles on the faces and the highlights in the hair. thank you netgalley and 4U2B books for this cute story.

This book shows the importance of noting qualities outside of the physical. Fiona is a cat that wants to be seen and acknowledged for more than her looks. The art in this book was beautiful and bright. I'd recommend this book for ages 4+. #NetGalley #NetGalleyaARC #ARC

curious, bright-eyed, and full of wonder as she uncovers what it really means to be praised. It gave me total niece energy: that sparkly mix of delight, heart, and the kind of magic only little ones and very special cats seem to have.

Fiona loves caring for the people in her human family. She wakes them up each morning, chases the mice found wandering into their apartment, and entertains them with her antics. However, she is a bit surprised to discover that they call her terms such as "Beautiful!" and "Gorgeous!" when she is looking for so much more than compliments about her appearance. Eventually, through love, patience, and continued reinforced meddling Fiona urges her human family to see beyond her silky white fur and pleading eyes that she goes to great measures to ensure each one of them is safe and content.

Fiona is a charming feline character with great compassion and an inquisitive nature. Internal dialogue is used to share Fiona's thoughts about her interactions with the people she loves. Strong family connections, moral character, and responsible habits are expressed through a story that shows how sharing life with a feline like Fiona is a cherished event.

Very cute book. My daughter didn’t stay interested but she’s still little. As she grows I feel she will love this book. This book teaches that you are more than your looks which is a great lesson. Will definitely read again to my daughter when she’s a little older!!

I read Fiona and the Peculiar Praise with my niece, who picked this one because of the cute cover—and luckily, the story was just as charming! This humorous tale delivers an important message about not judging others solely by their appearance. The playful storytelling kept my niece engaged, and the adorable artwork added to the book’s charm. While it wasn’t a standout favorite, we still enjoyed the read. 3.5 stars

Thanks, NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this!

Tone/Vibes: adventurous, funny, hopeful, inspiring, lighthearted, and a fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

Rating: 5.0/5.0

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this digital eARC! :)

I loved this book! The art and message are very well done. It’s so cute that the cat does not care about the superficial praises, but this is often what we use for children too! Sometimes it’s hard to have a simple introduction to positive affirmations and self-esteem without sounding silly, but this is very relatable to kids, as well as parents and mentors. I also loved that the one with the genuine praises was the “sister” or daughter in the story. Much like little ones, before they are more used to hearing outward praises.

I will definitely be buying this book to have in my office for my therapy clients. I look forward to any other books by this author or if this becomes a series! :)

Fiona is a fluffy cat. She’s loved by her family, and they complement her frequently. However, Fiona is not impressed with their compliments. She’s a hard-working cat and without her the family would fall apart. And they need to recognize it! This book is adorable, and the pictures are fantastic. I could see reading this repeatedly, both at a storytime or class or just in bed. I think it’s a nice lesson on how something sounds like a compliment but someone maybe taking it adifferent way.

Queen Fiona of Apartment 4C - or simply "Fiona" - knows that she is smart, and helpful, playful, resourceful and so much more than "pretty" or "lovely" like her family say. Fiona knows that she does many things well and wants to be appreciated for her actions, but her family doesn't seem to realize that.

Kids, like Fiona, sometimes aren't sure how to express themselves. Fiona isn't able to express her frustrations with her family, but it affects how she feels. Similarly, the words we use to praise children are important, as they may not always know which words to use to express themselves, but their actions can speak louder than their words. Praising someone for being kind, athletic, smart, artistic, caring or anything beyond their looks is an important message.

Conversations or books about this topic may appeal to both parents, educators, and children themselves. The colorful illustrations, and simple words that reinforce a positive message make this a great choice as a shared read, guided read or independent read for young readers of varying level.

Thank you to NetGalley and 4U2B Books & Media for an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.