Frankie, the Senior Cat

Margaret Anne Fler, M.Ed. is a retired school principal with a wealth of experience in Canada and overseas. Her areas of expertise include all areas of special education and curriculum development. One of the highlights of her educational career was a teaching assignment for the Department of National Defence (DND) schools in Germany. In addition, her experience as a principal of two international bilingual schools in China provided her with valuable insights into the challenges encountering Third Culture Kids (TCK).Margaret's extensive and diverse teaching and leadership experiences have given her valuable insights into the unique challenges of children who have had to move because of changes due to family situations, recent immigration, or relocation of parents in military service, missionary work, or international job opportunities. Empathy development has been a strong commitment for Margaret in schools as a teacher and administrator.Trained in facilitating peer support groups, she has helped many children cope with loss and grief as a result of painful transitions in their lives. Margaret recognizes the importance and value of giving children the opportunity to express their feelings within a caring, non-judgemental environment.

Meet lovable, charming Frankie, a senior cat. Join him on his journey from kittenhood to adulthood and finally to life as a senior. Learn how Frankie's positive attitude helps him cope with changes and challenges he encounters along the way. When Frankie loses his beloved pet playmate and companion, he deals with stages of grief as he transitions from sadness to acceptance.A new puppy joins Frankie's family and initially he is reluctant to accept his new sister because in Frankie's eyes, she cannot replace his lost playmate. However, soon, Frankie remembers how he felt when he first became part of his family and how his playmate welcomed and loved him.Grief due to loss and change, empathy, and the reciprocal relationships pets have with their owners are the dominant themes throughout this heartwarming book.The author hopes that the questions and resources Included are a valuable opportunity for parents, educators and support workers to have meaningful discussions with children.