What's Wrong with Tom?: A Veterinary Tale of Courage and Compassion

By Dr Gal Chivvis DVM

Book Overview

When playful Tom the cat suddenly isn't acting like himself, it takes a caring family, a dedicated veterinary team, and a dash of feline courage to discover What's Wrong with Tom?

Written in lively rhyme by a veterinarian and homeschool mom, What's Wrong with Tom? is the first book in The Critter Care Crew series. This heartwarming picture book blends imaginative storytelling with gentle, real-world insight, introducing young readers to veterinary care through a reassuring story of compassion, courage, and teamwork.

A surprise element woven into the narrative offers readers a glimpse into Tom's thoughts and feelings, inviting children to connect with him and feel like part of his care journey.

Perfect for ages 4-8, classrooms, and animal-loving families, this engaging picture book offers:

-A fun, rhythmic story filled with warmth, humor, and heart

-A gentle introduction to veterinary care and pet emergencies

-Themes of empathy, teamwork, and advocacy woven naturally into the story

-An accessible way to start meaningful conversations about caring for others

Bonus content includes:

-A kid-friendly glossary of veterinary terms

-Stress-management tips illustrated by Tom

-Access to free optional companion activities for parents, teachers, and homeschoolers

A gentle, engaging story that celebrates compassion, courage, teamwork, and the special bond between pets and the people who love them.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1967320918
• ISBN13: 9781967320912
• Release Date: August 2025
• Publisher: Critter Care Collective, LLC
• Length: 40 Pages
• Weight: 0.72 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.5" x 8.5"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Veterinarians love pets, too!

A delightful book to reassure pet owners of any age when their pet is ill or simply needs to see the vet. A little escapism about having a "pet Translator" but reassuring just the same. There is a glossary and bonus activities included. The illustrations by Mischa Pearson are complex, imaginative, colorful, and FUN. Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age, including ESL, and great for gifting to EVERYone, but especially to a school, waiting room, or your local public library! I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from BooksGoSocial via NetGalley. #WhatsWrongwithTom by @thedvmauthor and illustrated @by_mischapearson @booksgosocialgroup @crittercarecrew *****review #NetGalley #goodreads #storygraph #childrensbooks #readtokids @librarythingofficial #picturebookart #kidlit #storytelling #picturebook #illustration #imagination #caring #changinglives #bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk #indiebookstoresca @childrensbookcouncil #petcare #veterinarians