The Stormy Kromer Kitten by Erin Byrnes Bailey is a delightful historical fiction children’s book that blends themes of love, ingenuity, and the charm of small-town life. The story follows George Kromer, a baseball enthusiast turned railroad engineer, and his wife Ida, whose creativity leads to the invention of the iconic Kromer cap. The narrative is enriched by the presence of SideKick, a calico kitten who becomes an integral part of their lives and the story’s heartwarming progression. The introduction sets the stage with George’s love for baseball and his eventual career shift to support his future with Ida.

The discovery of SideKick in George’s baseball cap is a tender moment that captures the reader’s attention and sets the tone for the story’s blend of warmth and innovation. Ida’s determination to create a practical yet stylish cap for George, inspired by her sewing skills and SideKick’s antics, is both endearing and empowering. The transformation of the cap into the now-famous Stormy Kromer cap is a lasting tribute to Ida’s ingenuity and the couple’s teamwork. Junior’s Digital Design beautifully illustrates the book, adding visual appeal to the story. The dedication and author’s note provide personal insights that deepen the connection to the narrative. Erin Byrnes Bailey’s passion for historical fiction and her family’s love for Kromer caps shine through in this work. The Stormy Kromer Kitten is a heartwarming tale that celebrates creativity, family, and the enduring legacy of a simple yet iconic invention. It is a delightful read for children and adults alike.

The Stormy Kromer Kitten by Erin Byrnes Bailey is a historical tale for children based on a true story. George Kromer loved baseball, and he played it all the time, but when he met and fell in love with Ida, he knew he had to change things. He got a job as a railroad engineer to provide them with a roof over their heads, but George would never give up his baseball cap, not for anyone. One day, on the train home, George found a tiny kitten curled up in his cap and took it to Ida – his name was SideKick. When George lost his last baseball cap on a windy day, Ida came up with a grand idea, one that would change caps forever and lead to one of the most successful businesses – the Kromer Cap Company.

The Stormy Kromer Kitten by Erin Byrnes Bailey is a unique story set in the early 1900s, with historical facts interwoven with fiction to create something that kids will love to read and learn from. The illustrations help bring the story to life, and the addition of a few photographs, including one of George Kromer himself, adds a touch of reality and helps kids see the character behind it all. It teaches readers how the Kromer Cap came into being all those years ago, and if their parents or grandparents still have one, they’ll be able to relate it to the story. The addition of a cute kitten seals the deal – what kid doesn’t love a fluffy bundle? – and younger readers will find it much easier to read and understand than a stuffy history book that just lists facts. Lovely story, all kids will enjoy this.