Early Reader Review: All Are Welcome by Gwen Tarpley

Source: From Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

All Are Welcome by Gwen Tarpley 

Series: Cat Cafe #3
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Publication Date: July 29, 2025  

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Join Cat, Rabbit, Penguin, and the rest of the team in this delightful new comic collection for middle grade readers! All are Welcome offers young readers delightful comics full of friendship and fun. 

According to the School Library Journal, Cat Cafe "makes you feel good because it’s a place where you are accepted, no matter who you are or how you feel."

The comic book equivalent of a cozy blanket, Cat’s Café takes you by the hand and carefully guides you away from all the darkness in life. Freeing the warm and floofies within, Cat’s Café offers a world that understands you. In this new comic collection for middle grade readers, fans will find new levels cuteness, heartwarming moments, and learn more about their favorite characters. Along with the familiar stories of mental health and friendship that Cat’s Café is known for, author Gwen Tarpley also uses characters like Rabbit to share her most authentic self with the world. So, grab your favorite mug and brew, and sip, laugh, and cheer as you curl up with the newest installment of Cat’s Café. 

Review: 

This graphic novel is an absolute gem. It is bursting with heart, humor, and brightly colored, animal-filled comics that explore so many important themes in short, impactful moments. From emotional support and mental health to friendship, anxiety, small wins, asking for help, and the underrated joys of everyday life, All Are Welcome covers it all with tenderness and charm.

I’ve always loved Cat’s Café—it truly feels like a warm hug in book form. Whether it’s Rabbit doing a rain dance just to stay snuggled up at home, or the painfully relatable quote “I sleep. I happy. I wake. I sad.” (because mornings are SO hard!)...these comics strike a perfect balance between comfort and emotional honesty.

The fall-themed pages were my personal favorite with the cozy vibes that I love to see in illustrations. There was also a really cute full-page of a DnD scene, and the LOTR references? Absolutely adorable. Frododo and Lambwise stole my heart. (SO fricken cute!)

This is a beautifully affirming read that reminds you it’s okay to feel things deeply, to ask for support, and to find joy in the little things. Highly recommended for readers of all ages who need a little light and love in their day. Cat and his friends are here for you.