Lorcan Dillon was seven years old when his mother, Jayne, first heard him say 'I love you.' The words were not directed at her, but at Jessi-cat, the family pet. Lorcan suffers from autism and selective mutism, a condition that renders him unable to speak in certain situations, unable to express emotions or enjoy hugs and he has never told anyone he loves them. This all began to change with the arrival of a kitten named Jessi-cat.
Jessi-cat is the stirring tale of how the affection and attention of a constant loving companion allowed a little boy to start to connect to the world around him. Lorcan spends hours playing with her, cuddling her and telling her how much he loves her. He has also begun opening up to others, making friends at school and is constantly making progress. Jessi-cat proved so inspiring that she was named Best Friend and National Cat of the Year 2012 by the Cats Protection Awards. This book charts the story of this great friendship and how the love between a young boy and his pet has changed his life forever.

About the Author
Jayne Dillon worked as a midwife at her local hospital in Manchester before family commitments led her to put her career on hold. She lives in Manchester with her husband Dave, a GP, and children Adam, Luke and Lorcan, along with Jessi the cat, Lily the dog and two goldfish. She plays an active part in her local community and local campaigns.

Reviews
A selectively mute boy's extraordinary bond with the family cat has inspired his mother to tell their story * Sunday Telegraph *
Inspiring * Daily Express *
A purrfect feel-good read * Woman's Weekly *
Chronicles the growth of their incredible bond and the reader can't help being moved by this story of an astonishing friendship * Newmarket Journal *
An absorbing story and a valuable book * The Birman Cat Club Magazine *



Book Information
ISBN 9781782431244
Author Jayne Dillon
Format Hardback
Page Count 224
Imprint Michael O'Mara Books Ltd
Publisher Michael O'Mara Books Ltd