First Lady Jill Biden is set to release a children’s picture book centered around her White House cat, Willow, scheduled to hit bookshelves in June.
Announced by Simon & Schuster on Wednesday, “Willow the White House Cat” chronicles the journey of the short-haired tabby to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
According to aides, Willow caught the attention of Jill Biden when she leaped onto the stage during one of her speeches at a Pennsylvania farm during the 2020 presidential campaign. Subsequently, Biden adopted the feline, christening her with a namesake derived from her hometown of Willow Grove, Pennsylvania.
In a statement provided by the publisher, the first lady expressed, “As Willow bounds from room to room, exploring history in her new home, she learns quickly about all of the incredible people who make the ‘People’s House’ run.” She further added, “Making many new friends along the way, Willow’s journey gives the world a ‘cats-eye’ view of all the ins and outs of America’s most famous address.”
Currently at 4 years old, Willow stands as the sole Biden pet residing in the White House, following the passing of their three German shepherd dogs. Champ passed away in 2021, while Major and later Commander were relocated due to exhibiting aggressive behavior, including biting Secret Service personnel and White House staff.
Presidential pets, a perennial source of public intrigue, often inspire literary works. Notable examples include George H.W. Bush’s dog, Millie, who “opined” on her White House life in “Millie’s Book,” and first lady Hillary Clinton’s book about the letters sent to her family pets, Socks the cat and Buddy the dog. Similarly, books have been dedicated to President Barack Obama’s Portuguese water dog, Bo.
“Willow the White House Cat” is set to be published by Paula Wiseman Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing. Co-authored by award-winning author Alyssa Satin Capucilli and illustrated by acclaimed artist Kate Berube, proceeds from the book sales will be donated by Jill Biden to charities supporting military dogs.
This forthcoming book joins Jill Biden’s repertoire of children’s titles, which includes “Don’t Forget, God Bless Our Troops” and “Joey: The Story of Joe Biden.” Additionally, she authored her memoir, “Where the Light Enters,” in 2019.
