Bart's Art

by Liezl Russell

A heartwarming story of a street cat, a secret talent, and the journey to belonging.

Bart, a scrappy street cat, is always making a mess in his search for food—but no matter where he goes, he’s chased away and unwelcome. He’s used to feeling like he doesn’t belong. But one fateful night, he stumbles upon an unexpected gift—one that fills the town with color and joy, capturing the hearts of those who once shunned him.

As Bart embraces his newfound talent in secret, he begins to Could this be his chance to find a home and the acceptance he’s always dreamed of? Or will his secret keep him forever on the outside looking in?

Perfect for children ages 3 to 7 who love animals, art, and inspiring underdog stories, this beautifully illustrated book celebrates resilience, following your dreams, and discovering where you truly belong.

Kindle Edition

Published March 12, 2025

Reviews

[Bailey Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick and cute bedtime story

We really liked this book! The illustrations were bright and quirky (kind of reminded me of cartoons from the 90s!) and the story was sweet with a happy ending for Bart the cat! Would definitely recommend for budding artists and cat lovers alike!

[Elena Perez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely cute upbeat story with adorable illustrations - my kids loved it.

[Steven Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the Colors!

The illustrations are so bright and fun and it perfectly captures the feel of this very silly story. Kids will definitely love this one!

[Jennifer C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This delightful story introduces us to Bart, a street cat, who just wants to be accepted and loved by others, but he has to overcome the community's perceptions of him first. Through excellent, expressive illustrations, we enter Bart’s world as he stumbles upon his hidden talent by accident and eventually wins over the hearts of everyone in his neighborhood by being true to himself.

There are several important themes woven into this lovely story. I particularly love that Bart chooses to paint from his heart — a sentiment that is easily lost in today's world among the many pressures on all of us to live and be a certain way. Bart provides children with a model of what it looks like to follow your own instincts as a guide throughout life. It also teaches young children the values of not judging others without knowing them, acceptance and having compassion for all other living beings and their feelings.

I definitely recommend this book for young children! Well done!

[Lindi Smit · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a feel-good read that teaches little minds about compassion. My daughter was intrigued by the characters who come alive through the colourful illustrations. This is a great book for kids. My little cat lover gives it a firm 5 out of 5.

[Carolyn Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great family read

Very colorful story with a great lesson and a surprising ending. I loved it and I’m sure your family will too.

[Marin . · Rating 4 out of 5]

BART'S ART is an unpretentious little book that teaches young readers the benefits of having an adopted furry pet.
Although the publication has an open-ended approach, it is clear that lifelong care and commitment are on the author's mind regarding responsible pet ownership.
The story narrative is uncomplicated and humourous - both loved and appreciated by children.
Liezle Russell has chosen a comics-type presentation for both text and visuals; this approach makes the story easy to follow and detail-oriented.
Speech bubbles and naive art style are two other comic design elements that relate the book to comics.
Even the font relates the publication to graphic novels - it is legible but informal, with emphasis on words of importance.

[Carolyn Watson-Dubisch · Rating 5 out of 5]

An endearing story of a hungry street cat that just wants to be loved. When he finds that he has stepped in paint, Bart the cat discovers an artist within himself. His night time art becomes very popular and through it he finds a loving home.
I have to say this was a wonderful story with a happy end, and as someone who loves art and cats it was easily one of my favorite children's books for this year

[Danielle LaRosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bart's Art tells the sweet story of a creative cat who leaves his artistic mark all over town—and in doing so, finds a place to truly belong. The idea of an expressive animal artist searching for connection is endearing and has the potential to resonate with young readers who enjoy stories about pets, creativity, and home.The illustrations, though full of personality, have a more unpolished, amateur feel that might not meet the expectations of readers used to more refined artwork.

[Ann Fleming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bart’s Art is a heartwarming story about a lonely cat, who no one appreciates. He is yelled at and chased away time and again. When Bart, quite accidentally, discovers his talent for painting, it eventually leads him to a best friend and a loving home. I loved this sweet story, and think kids will definitely fall for Bart. I see a series in his future.

[Pat Danna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bart, the street cat, wants a home. And in the most unexpected way of dumping over paint, he began a journey to suprise people with his use of color! Colorful illustrations..cartoon-like, like a graphic novel. A great read-aloud...and a way to teach about compassion and acceptance. Of course, read Bart's Art to see if he finds a home...or an art career!

[Mom1kori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for Little Animal Lovers
My daughter fell in love with Bart! She felt sad when he was lonely and so happy when he found his talent and friends. It’s a wonderful book about kindness, hope, and belonging.

[Janet Ashmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Bart's Art" is a delightful story about a once shunned street cat who discovers, quite by accident, that he can paint! Bart hopes to find a friend and a home once the townsfolk understand that he has a unique ability. Kids will love the story's ending and the book's many colorful pictures.

[All Anton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An adorable and quirky story that celebrates creativity and self-expression. I loved the playful and vibrant illustrations featuring the charming and cheeky street cat, Bart! Cat lovers will love this one!

[Alex Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book for kids,encourage kids to always stay true to themselves even if things don't go well for them, and also it teaches parents to always believe in their kids, that they can be more even if they are a bit troublesome

[Melanie Bates · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover grabbed my attention first. It is so lovely and colorful. A lovely story with a lesson and a happy ending.

[Dawn Feltrop · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was drawn in by the lovely, colorful cover, and the story did not disappoint! It’s a sweet read with a gentle lesson.