Joanne C. Hillhouse has been a daydreamer since her childhood in Ottos, Antigua, and writing is how she processes life. As a freelance writer, editor, and instructor, Joanne embraces the literary arts as her occupation and her passion! She has been named the 2023 Arts & Letters Laureate for the Anthony N. Sabga Awards, Caribbean Excellence. To Be a Cheetah is her fourth children's book.

This story begins with a little boy's curiosity about cheetahs. Despite being very tired, his mommy explains that cheetahs live in Africa, and she describes it. This discussion sparks his imagination. He can visualize the place his mom talked about and see himself running with the cheetahs. As the boy runs in his visions, he passes other animals in their natural environments. He imagines himself having superpowers and being so fast that nothing can catch, touch, or see him. The boy expresses his desire to go to Africa to be a cheetah. His mom encourages him to go to sleep and dream. She told him he could go anywhere he wanted in his dreams, but she would be there waiting for him when he woke. She explains that he is her baby and she wants him close to her. As he drifts to sleep, he assures his mommy that he will always let her catch him. The illustrations are rich in color and support the child's vivid imagination. His bedroom portrays his love of cheetahs. The landscape and animals are realistic and provide a glimpse of the natural environment in Africa. This sweet bedtime story with a loving message is perfect for young children aged three to six to enjoy with their parent(s). It is a delightful way to end a busy day and reassure a child that they are loved and free to imagine whatever brings them joy.--Children's Literature "Children's Literature" (11/27/2023 12:00:00 AM)

Publisher: Sunbird Books

Pub date: 2023-06-13

Length: 32 pages