My Cat Likes to Hide in Boxes

Author: Eve Sutton

Illustrator: Lynley Dodd

National Library of NZ Entry

A beloved classic, My Cat Likes to Hide in Boxes is a staple in New Zealand homes, delighting generations of children with its simple charm. Few Kiwi kids haven’t heard this story read aloud—again and again.

This picture book follows an ordinary cat who shuns grandeur for the humble thrill of hiding in boxes, playfully contrasted with ‘fancy’ felines from around the globe. Eve Sutton’s rhyming verse dances off the page, effortlessly lodging itself in young minds with its catchy, sing-song rhythm.

First published in 1973, the book marked Sutton’s debut, brought to life by vibrant illustrations from her cousin-by-marriage, Lynley Dodd—later famed for the Hairy Maclary series. Its enduring appeal earned it the Esther Glen Award in 1975, and a 50th anniversary edition in 2023 cemented its legacy.

Every home library deserves this gem. Little ones will fall for the cat’s quirky antics and revel in the rollicking rhymes, making it a timeless treasure for shared reading moments.

Copies are available online. Book Express is an excellent New Zealand online secondhand retailer. Otherwise, check the link below.

Purchase this book (AbeBooks)