Socks (novel) facts for kids
First edition
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| Author | Beverly Cleary |
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| Cover artist | Beatrice Darwin |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | William Morrow & Co. |
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Publication date
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1973 |
| Media type | Print (hardback & paperback) |
| Pages | 160 |
| ISBN | 0-688-30067-7 |
| OCLC | 572003 |
| LC Class | PZ7.C5792 So |
Socks is a children's novel written by the famous author Beverly Cleary. It was first published in 1973 and had illustrations by Beatrice Darwin. This book won the William Allen White Children's Book Award, which is a special prize for children's literature. The main character, Socks the cat, even inspired the name of Socks Clinton, who was the pet cat of U.S. President Bill Clinton and his family.
Contents
What is the Story About?
The story of Socks is told from the point of view of Socks himself. He is a tabby cat with four white paws. Socks lives with a young married couple, Bill and Marilyn Bricker.
Socks's Happy Life
At the beginning of the story, Socks is the only "child" in the Bricker family. He gets lots of love and attention from Bill and Marilyn. They spend a lot of time playing with him and petting him. Socks feels very happy and loved in his home.
A New Family Member Arrives
Soon, the Brickers have a baby boy named Charles William. This changes everything for Socks. He starts to feel like he has been forgotten. The Brickers are very busy taking care of the new baby. Socks gets less attention than he used to.
Feeling Left Out
Socks sometimes gets into trouble because he is curious about the baby. He even has to live in the garage for a short time. The Brickers don't always understand why Socks is acting differently. They think he has changed from the sweet cat they adopted.
The only person who seems to understand Socks is a kind babysitter named Mrs. Risby. She gives Socks lots of attention and understands that he is just lonely.
Socks's Adventures and Discoveries
Socks has a few small adventures throughout the book. One day, he gets into a fight with another cat from the neighborhood. Socks ends up hurt and covered in mud. The Brickers are very worried about him.
This incident makes the Brickers realize something important. They had been so focused on their new baby that they forgot about Socks. They decide to show Socks how much they still love him. They pet and hug him, making him feel wanted again.
They let Socks back into the house, but they are still careful about him being near the baby. One day, Socks accidentally gets locked in Charles William's room. Charles William is now a toddler and much more active. He is happy to have the kitty with him. The baby starts playing with Socks by pulling stuffing from his playpen. He tosses it for Socks to chase and pounce on.
Marilyn, the mother, peeks through the window to see what is happening. She sees Socks curled up next to Charles William, purring softly. Charles William is sleeping peacefully. They both look tired from their fun game. Socks realizes that he has found a new friend in Charles William. He also finds a new way to be a part of his family. The book ends with Socks sleeping soundly next to Charles William in his crib. Marilyn leaves them alone, knowing they are now friends.
