Meet Ziva the Great, the Maine Coon Behind the Book
Cindy J. Vanous, a Dallas-based author, draws inspiration for her children’s picture books from real animals and family moments. Her newest book, Ziva the Great, features a Maine Coon named Ziva, who lives with Cindy’s in-laws, Karen and Steve Freedman, on Dover Drive.
Ziva was born on July 6, 2015, and was adopted through Lost Paws Rescue of Texas on April 7, 2016. She was fostered with another cat, Mia, and the pair were adopted together by the Freedmans. Since arriving, Ziva has claimed the house as her own, earning the nickname “Sheriff of Dover Drive” for her vigilant patrol of the front door.
The cat’s personality is described as big, affectionate, and loving toward her family. She enjoys belly rubs, being petted, and even grooming her humans. Ziva also has a quirky water-drinking routine: she approaches her bowl from the opposite side, paws the ground on either side, and drinks from the far rim, often soaking her muzzle.
Cindy recommends the book for children aged 5-12, noting that many adults are buying it for themselves. She emphasizes that readers should understand that we often do not know the full history of a fearful or cautious animal, and that compassion can be offered without knowing every detail.
Key takeaways
- Ziva, a Maine Coon born in 2015, lives with Cindy’s in-laws and was adopted in 2016.
- She was fostered with Mia and has become the “Sheriff of Dover Drive.”
- Ziva is affectionate, loves belly rubs, and has a distinctive water-drinking habit.
- The book Ziva the Great is aimed at ages 5-12, but adults also purchase it.
- Cindy encourages readers to show compassion without needing to know every past detail.
Ready to bring a cat or kitten home? Browse adoptable cats and kittens on Petfinnly.
Originally reported by Cats Magazine. Read the full article.
Cover photo by PM Photography via Pexels.
