"Crenshaw" is a children's book written by Katherine Applegate. It tells the story of a young boy named Jackson who faces challenges when his family struggles with financial difficulties. As they deal with the possibility of losing their home, Jackson finds comfort in the imaginary presence of a large, talking cat named Crenshaw. The story explores themes of friendship, imagination, and resilience. Through Jackson's experiences, readers learn about the importance of facing fears and the power of hope, even in tough situations. The book encourages empathy and understanding of the struggles that some families face.