THE CAT MAN OF ALEPPO

Ramsey Faragallah narrates the touching story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, a man who is dedicated to rescuing his city's abandoned cats amid Syria's civil war. A classic Arabic musical arrangement sets the mood for a story about kindheartedness born out of suffering. Listeners are then transported to both past and present Aleppo. The sounds of lively marketplaces mix with the harrowing sounds of a city under siege. Bombastic music swells underneath Faragallah's deep voice, creating tension and solemnity. Endnotes from both authors and the illustrator provide insights into the creators' intentionality and care with Aljaleel's story. This uplifting listen can serve as an avenue for young listeners to "find the helpers" amid an international tragedy. E.A.N. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2021]