Street Puppy Masjid Cat

As a Muslim, I have always loved cats. Dogs, not so much. I grew up in a traditional family where dogs were something to fear, often labelled as haram, and kept at a distance. Over the years, through reading, learning, and reflecting, I have come to better understand what Islam actually teaches about dogs, with far more nuance, compassion, and humanity than I once knew.

This picture book gently mirrors that journey for me.

“Street Puppy, Masjid Cat” tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a pampered cat who lives in a mosque and a stray dog who survives on the streets. Their paths cross when the imam calls for daily prayers, and through their parallel lives, the author highlights how differently they are treated, not because of who they are, but because of where they belong.

That contrast is powerful. It invites my class kids to think about fairness, care, and dignity. Not just for animals, but for one another.

This book has been a wonderful addition to my classroom. It opened up conversations about empathy, belonging, and how we treat those who are different from us. I also love that “masjid” is right there in the title, unapologetically.

The author’s note and glossary thoughtfully explain adhan, imam, and the Quran, making the text accessible without diluting its meaning. And at its heart, the message is clear and generous. Friendship across difference matters.