Jill Biden, the First Lady of the United States, has authored a children's picture book centered around her White House cat, Willow. Scheduled for release in June, 'Willow the White House Cat' narrates the tale of how the short-haired tabby found its way to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
During the 2020 presidential campaign, Willow caught Jill Biden's attention by hopping on stage as she addressed a crowd at a Pennsylvania farm. Impressed by the cat, Biden decided to adopt it and named it after her hometown, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania.
In the book, as Willow explores the historic rooms of the White House, she encounters the dedicated individuals who keep the 'People's House' running smoothly. The story aims to provide readers with a unique 'cats-eye' perspective on the inner workings of America's most famous address.
At four years old, Willow is currently the sole pet of the Biden family residing in the White House. Previously, they had three German shepherd dogs, with Champ passing away in 2021, and Major and Commander being relocated due to aggressive behavior.
Presidential pets have long captivated the public's interest and have been the subject of various books. Notable examples include George H.W. Bush's dog, Millie, who shared her White House experiences in 'Millie's Book,' and Hillary Clinton's writings about her family pets, Socks the cat and Buddy the dog.
'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 Alyssa Satin Capucilli and illustrated by Kate Berube, the book's proceeds will be donated by Jill Biden to charities supporting military dogs.
Among Jill Biden's previous children's works are 'Don’t Forget, God Bless Our Troops' and 'Joey: The Story of Joe Biden.' Additionally, she penned her memoir, 'Where the Light Enters,' in 2019.