Jill Biden, the First Lady of the United States, has written a children’s picture book about her White House cat, Willow. The book, titled “Willow the White House Cat,” is set to be published in June by Simon & Schuster. It tells the story of how Willow, a short-haired tabby, ended up at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Willow caught Jill Biden’s attention during the 2020 presidential campaign when she jumped on stage as the First Lady spoke at a Pennsylvania farm. Biden later adopted the cat and named her after her hometown of Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. In the book, Willow explores the White House and learns about the people who work there.
At 4 years old, Willow is the only Biden pet currently living in the White House. The Bidens have had three German shepherd dogs, but unfortunately, Champ passed away in 2021, and Major and later Commander were sent away after exhibiting aggressive behavior. Willow’s story is part of a long tradition of presidential pets capturing the public’s fascination. Previous White House pets, such as George H.W. Bush’s dog Millie and President Barack Obama’s dog Bo, have also been featured in books. Hillary Clinton wrote about the letters sent to her family pets, cat Socks and dog Buddy.
“Willow the White House Cat” is set to be published by Paula Wiseman Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing. The book was co-written by Jill Biden and award-winning author Alyssa Satin Capucilli, with illustrations by acclaimed artist Kate Berube. Proceeds from the sales of the book will be donated to charities that support military dogs. This isn’t Jill Biden’s first foray into children’s literature; she has previously written books such as “Don’t Forget, God Bless Our Troops” and “Joey: The Story of Joe Biden.” In 2019, she published her memoir, “Where the Light Enters.”
Pets have always played a significant role in the lives of presidents and first families, providing companionship and a sense of normalcy in the midst of the demands of public office. Willow’s story in “Willow the White House Cat” offers a unique perspective on life at the White House from a feline point of view. Through Willow’s adventures, young readers will learn about the history and significance of America’s most famous address and the people who inhabit it. The book aims to engage children in a fun and educational way, highlighting the importance of kindness, love, and respect for all beings.
Jill Biden’s decision to share Willow’s story in a children’s book reflects her commitment to promoting literacy and education, values that have been central to her work as a teacher and educator. By using the platform of the White House and her role as First Lady, Biden hopes to inspire young readers to learn about history, government, and the importance of empathy and compassion. Through Willow’s journey, children will not only discover the inner workings of the White House but also the power of friendship, curiosity, and resilience. “Willow the White House Cat” is poised to become a beloved addition to children’s literature, capturing the imagination of readers of all ages.
