Former Georgia Gov, Nathan Deal releases first children’s book: 'Veto, the Governor’s Cat'

ATLANTA – Two rescue cats take up residence in the Governor’s Mansion and learn about life, love, friendship and loss in former Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal’s first children’s book, "Veto, the Governor’s Cat."

Deal wrote the book as a tribute to his late wife, Sandra Deal, who championed literacy and early childhood education while she was a teacher and throughout her tenure as Georgia’s first lady and beyond. The book is available for pre-order now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and everywhere books are sold. It will be available for sale on Aug. 14.

"Veto, the Governor’s Cat" is a heart-warming tale that follows the adventures of Veto and Bill, two lovable rescue cats who find their forever home in the Governor’s Mansion. As Veto and Bill navigate their new lives, they encounter various challenges and triumphs, with each chapter bringing a new adventure that reinforces the power of empathy and compassion.

These beloved pets, who moved from the city to the country with the Deals when they left office, continued to bring joy and teach meaningful lessons, with Veto still residing with the governor today.

Through Veto's eyes, children will learn the importance of accepting differences and trying new things. The narrative gently guides young readers through complex emotions, offering valuable lessons on understanding grief and loss.

"Writing 'Veto, the Governor’s Cat' has been a deeply personal and rewarding journey for me," Deal said. "This book is a tribute to my late wife, Sandra, whose unwavering dedication to literacy and early childhood education continues to inspire me.

"Through the adventures of Veto and Bill, I share the values of empathy, resilience, and love that Sandra cherished. I sincerely hope young readers and their families find joy and comfort in these pages. Proceeds from this book will further our mission by supporting literacy and educational initiatives through The Deal Foundation."

"Veto, The Governor’s Cat" includes discussion questions at the end of each chapter to further engage young minds, spark conversations, and deepen understanding. "Veto" is more than just a story; it's also a guide for children to navigate their feelings and build strong, empathetic connections with others.

Nathan Deal is a public servant who served the citizens of Georgia as a state Senator, a United States Congressman, and as the 82nd governor of Georgia from 2011-2019. His wife, Sandra Deal, passed away in 2022. She was an advocate for literacy and early childhood education and, along with the governor’s office and the state legislature, founded the Sandra Dunagan Deal Center for Early Language and Literacy to improve reading outcomes for the children of Georgia. Housed at Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville, the Deal Center works tirelessly to provide research, professional learning, and community engagement throughout the state.

A portion of the proceeds from "Veto, The Governor's Cat" will support literacy projects and other educational initiatives through The Deal Foundation’s work. For more information, follow @VetotheCat on Instagram and Facebook.

Veto, The Governor’s Cat

Author: Governor Nathan Deal

Illustrator: Cheryl Riner Hodge

Reading Age: 7-10

Pages: 60

Publisher: BookLogix

Pre-orders: Available now on Amazon

Publication date: Aug. 14

Books will be available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and everywhere books are sold.