ZIVA THE GREAT
by Cindy J. Vanous
Children's Fiction / Ages 6-12 | 32 Pages | Published October 21, 2025
Book Campaign Highlights
“Experiences in Ziva’s past destroyed her trust in humans, especially strangers, but her life with the vulnerable young Elsie is a turning point for the cat as much as it is for the sad, little girl.” ~Boys Mom Reads
“Vanous’ reputable style with children’s book does not disappoint with Ziva the Great. You don’t get just a story, you get a journey.” ~The TX Lit Chic
“A beautiful story with a great lesson in friendship.” ~Tracey Smith
“The children’s book has all of my heart and I’m not ashamed to say I teared up reading it.” ~The Page Unbound
“This children’s book is more than entertaining; it conveys that pets can be calming forces in our lives.” ~StoreyBook Reviews
“With detailed illustrations and a heartwarming story of finding home, Ziva the Great is the perfect baby or birthday gift for the children in your life—and the cat lovers as well!” ~Jill Anderson
“I recommend this read to people of all ages because you’re never too young or too old to learn about empathy. We’d all be way better for it.” ~Book Fidelity
“This is not only a beautiful looking book, it’s also a beautifully worded story.” ~Rainy Days with Amanda
“I enjoyed looking at the drawings almost as much as the words on the page. Together they make a magical and thoughtful book.” ~The Book’s Delight
Campaign Schedule
| 01/20/26 | The Book’s Delight | Review |
| 01/23/26 | Book Fidelity | Review |
| 01/26/26 | Sybrina’s Book Blog | Spotlight |
| 01/27/26 | It’s Not All Gravy | Review |
| 01/29/26 | Boys’ Mom Reads | Review |
| 01/30/26 | Librariel Book Adventures | Review |
| 02/01/26 | Rebecca R. Cahill, Author | Spotlight |
| 02/02/26 | The TX Lit Chic | Review |
| 02/03/26 | Tracey Smith | Review |
| 02/07/26 | Rainy Days with Amanda | Review |
| 02/11/26 | The Page Unbound | Review |
| 02/14/26 | LSLL Blog | Review |
| 02/16/26 | StoreyBook Reviews | Review |
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.
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.