Junio and the Cloud Cat (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9788409675715)

Embark on a magical journey in Junio and the Cloud Cat, an adventurous tale of courage, friendship, and self-discovery.

High above the clouds, Junio lives in a bubble close to the sun, warm and safe-but also lonely. When a mysterious light beckons from below, curiosity compels him to burst his bubble and descend into the unknown. Along the way, he meets Lu, an extraordinary cloud cat with a fascinating personality. Together, they set off on an unforgettable adventure to uncover the source of the mysterious light.

The story at its core explores themes of growing up and venturing outside the comfort and safety that envelop us. For children, this is often the safety of home and family. Whether it's the first day at school, joining new friends in the neighbourhood, or trying a new activity, children often experience "bursting their bubble", stepping out of there comfort zone and venturing into the unknown. And yes, some parts can be scary at first, but in the end, it is always rewarding as they grow more self-aware and confident in themselves.

The boy and the cat are two sides of the same coin: one represents innocence and naivety, while the other embodies instinct and curiosity-the primal urge daring us to be brave, the voice that guides us through unknown situations.

The book carefully explores these themes and wraps them in a fantastical story about a boy who lives in the sky and his new companion, a storm-conjuring cat. Rather than preaching its message upfront, the narrative gently leads readers through an imaginary world filled with wonder and magic at every corner. From the blissful heights of snowy mountains to the dark and scary depths of the sea, witnessing the communal bonds of the fireflies, to the wisdom of a friendly and reflective old sailor. The duo's adventures all build toward a climactic revelation, when Junio and Lu finally find the source of the light. Upon gazing down at the tranquil pond, Junio has a moment of reflection, clarity and realisation that he is the bold, defiant, cloud-piercing light he was searching for all along. This moment of self-discovery has not been handed to him; rather, Lu allowed him to find it on his own, empowering him to embrace his inner strength.

Junio and the Cloud Cat is a story that resonates with readers of all ages. It reminds us that the courage to face the unknown is within us all, and should we ever forget, we need only listen to the tempestuous and daring cat within us.

This adventurous tale is elevated and enhanced by the creator's dedication to crafting a truly standout work. As a debuting author and seasoned illustrator, Michael has created a fully realized and vibrant world for the story to inhabit. The illustrations are highly detailed and engaging, bursting with vibrant colours and depicting awe-inspiring landscapes. These images don't just complement the story-they expand it, offering readers a chance to explore a world beyond the text. At the end of the book, a detailed map highlights the journey the heroes took, showcasing familiar landmarks and intriguing unknown places. These details invite readers to wonder and spark their imagination.

In creating this book, Michael aimed to recreate the wonder of his own childhood experiences-getting lost in the magical worlds of children's books. Through its rich storytelling and breathtaking visuals, Junio and the Cloud Cat achieves this and more, making it a treasure for readers of all ages.