Governor Nathan Deal

Veto, an ordinary cat, with an extraordinary story.

Veto is a cat, but not just any cat! He is the Governor’s cat. Veto was born on a farm and enjoyed playing with all the farmyard animals. One day, Veto and his big brother, Bill, were sent to live at the Governor and First Lady’s mansion, to help protect the mansion’s garden from the chipmunks and birds that were eating the fruits and berries. As Veto and Bill settled into their new home, they explored the grounds and liked to chase away the chipmunks, squirrels, and birds. They make friends with the troopers and a man who worked at the mansion, named Dan. But one day, it is time for the Governor and First Lady to move on, and Veto and Bill move to a new home in the country. The brothers are scared and sad to leave their friends, especially Dan. Veto and Bill have a good life in the country, and meet lots of new friends. But as time passes, Veto soon has to navigate life in the country without his big brother and best friend. He makes new friends, and the Governor and the First Lady become his very special companions.

Veto, the Governor's Cat by author, Governor Nathan Deal, is a sweet, charming and heartfelt tale of the Governors cat, Veto. Written from Veto’s perspective, the book follows his journey from his birth on a farm, through to his time living at the Governor’s mansion, through to his later years in the countryside. As Veto moves to different homes, he learns important life lessons, including how to be brave in new situations, how to make new friends, and even how to deal with death. The story captures Veto’s emotions, the confusion of moving home and the sadness of his loss, while also offering moments of warmth and joy as he makes new friends and learns new things. His experiences are similar to human experiences and young children will relate to his journey.

The watercolour style illustrations by Cheryl Riner Hodge are beautiful and capture Veto’s life and emotions perfectly.

Star rating: 5 Stars 

Summary: A warm, tender and beautifully illustrated book that gently guides children through big life events.