Ukrainian Paws And Whiskers on The Island

Hi,I am happy to present a heartwarming and funny children’s book about the adventures of a cat, a dog, and a guinea pig who arrive on the Isle of Wight with their Ukrainian refugee owner, Marusya that are welcomed by the kind English Watkins family. During the story the animals quickly discover that life on the island is full of surprises.

This book is self-published, and together with Odessa-born illustrator Yana Barabash, we want to celebrate a new friendship between two nations while also showing how cultural differences can lead to hilarious situations — just like in the story — helping us understand each other better.

Coming from a world where what’s supposed to be left turns out to be right, and what’s supposed to be right turns out to be left, the characters stumble into playful misunderstandings and funny discoveries at every turn. With charm, humor, and warmth, their story shows how even in the strangest situations, friendship, laughter, and kindness can help everyone feel at home in a new land.

Along with the book, I would like to promote the art of Yana Barabash, our illustrator, who came to the Island as a refugee, and help make her work more widely recognized. Her site is www.yanabarabash.com It was her original idea about character Marusya coming with pets to the Isle of Wight. Hope you enjoy reading our book! 

This is a self-published and self-distributed book.
For all inquiries regarding hardback pre-orders, please contact me at: halle.dovetail@gmail.com.

The book costs £15 + postage.
Currently, delivery is available within the UK only.

Orders in Ukraine will be available starting in 2026.