Anne Cateaux Author
When Anne was twelve years old, she used her babysitting money to buy a series of hardcover National Geographic books. Each book was dedicated to one of the Wonders of the World and unsolved ancient architectural mysteries. Pyramids, mysterious landing strips, labyrinth of lines carved into the mountain tops, that can only be seen from high in the sky, all intrigued her and ignited her imagination about aliens, alternative universes, and magic. Nothing was too inconceivable for Anne to consider to be in the realm of possibility.
Decades later, life’s experiences showed her the unimaginable was in fact, true.
Shimmy Series
Shimmy was inspired by a real-life event.
My boys witnessed the drowning of a young fawn at our local Vancouver Island beach. Following the tragic event my mind spun a tale that kept the inner child in me completely entertained and helped my sons overcome the sadness they felt. It was also my attempt to answer the age-old question where do our pets go when they die?
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Volume 1
Shimmy
When 12-year-old Evan, his younger brother Gavin and their friend Meagan witness the drowning of a one-month old fawn, they are shocked to discover that they have opened a door to a world they never knew existed. Talking dead animals, buried gold, a friendship tested to the limit and an obnoxious bully keep the trio on their toes. Set against the beautiful back drop of Vancouver Island, the children must use their cunning minds, fierce determination, and sense of humour to overcome every obstacle that is thrown their way.
Volume 2
A Shimmy’s Story
Dramatically cut off from their family, friends and the Shimmies, Evan, Gavin, Meagan and Coolio must band together to stay alive in a world where they do not belong. Their only link to their home is a dead horned owl named Carolynn, who with each passing day, seems to lose her grip on reality and her memory on why the children are in the calamity they are in. Madeline, their beloved blue jay has no recollection of who they are and how at one time she hovered lovingly over them like a mother.
Book Reviews
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Shimmy is a fun book for all ages!
December 1, 2021
This book is not what I expected at all. No matter what your age, if you’ve ever loved and lost a pet, this book tackles the tough topic in a really fun and imaginable way. I highly recommend it.
Vanessa S. St. Catharines Grade 9
November 18, 2021
What I enjoyed most about Shimmy was the detailed character descriptions and that Anne wrote enthusiastically with great imagination. I can’t wait for the second book in the series.
Patti Sneyd, St. Catharines
November 18, 2021
Adventure and mayhem surround this heartwarming story when children develop the ability to communicate with spirit animals. The Shimmies help the children learn valuable lessons while they solve the mystery surrounding the notorious Brother XII and missing jars of gold coins legendary in Vancouver Island in the early 20th century. The story of friendship and faith is sure to be explored further as the ending promises further adventures from these enterprising young people and their newfound relationships with the Shimmies.
David C, Ontario Certified Music Teacher, Junior Kindergarten - Grade 8
November 17, 2021
Shimmy is a very well-written, imaginative, and creative story that moves along at such a pace that the reader has no choice but to stay engaged page after page. It is an adventure story for young people with many well-timed moments of humor and levity that make this story quite refreshing.
The main characters are well developed and will appeal to their younger audience, not because of their stature but more because of their courteous and caring nature towards each other throughout the story.
Shimmy is an unparalleled adventure of youth, dreams, and nature and highlights the very essence of what a child’s imagination can be.
Trina W. BC Elementary School Teacher
November 17, 2021
Cateaux’s debut novel is intriguing and fast-paced. Shimmy is an adventurous read which reminds you to appreciate your family, pets, and our amazing Island environment.