February 2026 - A mischievous orange kitten, a grumpy resident cat, and a Halloween mix up come together in Bad Luck Kitty and the Orange Intruder, a charming new picture book for children ages 3 to 7. Written by Lynne Gobioff and illustrated by Lorenzo “Kirk” Kirkpatrick, the story delivers a warm, funny message about siblings, sharing attention, and discovering that family often grows in unexpected ways.
Bad Luck Kitty and the Orange Intruder introduces young readers to Bad Luck Kitty, a cat who enjoys a quiet, predictable life until an energetic orange kitten suddenly appears. What follows is playful chaos, complete with spooky Halloween surprises and plenty of misunderstandings. As tensions rise, both cats are forced to confront their fears and frustrations, ultimately learning that friendship and love can sneak in when least expected. By the end, Bad Luck Kitty discovers that siblings, even surprising ones, might just be the very best thing ever.
The book was inspired by a universal childhood experience. When a new baby joins a family, older siblings often struggle with sharing attention and adjusting to change. Gobioff wrote this story to gently reassure children that while change can feel scary, it can also lead to deeper bonds, joy, and unexpected companionship. Through humor and relatable emotions, the story encourages empathy, patience, and openness to new relationships.
Author Lynne Gobioff holds an MFA in children’s writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts. She is also the owner of Harvest Moon Sanctuary, an animal rescue organization. Gobioff lives in Westchester, New York with her husband, five children, a wide array of animals, and one very lucky kitten. Her background in both storytelling and animal care brings authenticity and warmth to the world of Bad Luck Kitty.
Illustrator Lorenzo “Kirk” Kirkpatrick is a professional illustrator and designer with more than twenty five years of experience crafting colorful characters and visually engaging stories. His expressive illustrations bring humor, emotion, and charm to every page, making the story especially appealing to young readers.
Perfect for bedtime reading, classroom discussions, and seasonal Halloween fun, Bad Luck Kitty and the Orange Intruder is a heartwarming celebration of siblings, second chances, and the magic of learning to share love.
For families welcoming a new baby or simply looking for a meaningful and entertaining story, Bad Luck Kitty and the Orange Intruder is a delightful addition to any child’s bookshelf.