Subject
Cats -- Fiction Books
Best books
Unknown
Lords of the Housetops: Thirteen Cat Tales
"Lords of the Housetops: Thirteen Cat Tales" by Carl Van Vechten et al. is a collection of short stories likely written in the early 20th century. This anthology showcases a variety of narratives centered around cats, each tale exploring unique themes and perspectives on feline life. Through these stories, readers can expect to encounter different characters and scenarios that convey the independence, quirks, and intricacies of cat behavior and their relationships with humans. The opening of the collection features a tale titled "The Cat" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman. It introduces a solitary cat navigating the harsh winter landscape in search of food. The cat employs incredible patience as it waits for a rabbit and ultimately captures its prey. After this successful hunt, the cat returns to its master's cabin, only to find that the master has been absent for the winter. As the story unfolds, a weary stranger seeks refuge in the cabin, and the cat forms an unexpected bond with him, sharing its hard-earned meal. The narrative beautifully sets the stage for themes of survival, companionship, and the poignant connections between animals and humans amidst challenging circumstances.
E. T. A. (Ernst Theodor Amadeus) Hoffmann
Lebensansichten des Katers Murr nebst fragmentarischer Biographie des Kapellmeisters Johannes Kreisler in zufälligen Makulaturblättern
"Lebensansichten des Katers Murr" by E. T. A. Hoffmann is a satirical novel published between 1819 and 1821. This ingenious work interweaves two seemingly separate biographies: the self-satisfied memoirs of Murr, an educated cat who narrates his own life and bildung, and fragmentary passages from the biography of Johannes Kreisler, a tormented musical genius. The novel's playful structure arises from a fictitious accident—Murr allegedly tore up Kreisler's biography to use as scrap paper while writing his own memoir, and the printer mistakenly published both texts together, creating a deliberately fragmented masterpiece.
Edward Peple
A Night Out
"A Night Out" by Edward Peple is a lighthearted narrative likely written in the early 20th century. This book is a humorous fictional tale that explores the life and adventures of a wealthy Persian cat named Omar Ben Sufi. It delves into themes of class distinction, identity, and the contrast between the lives of pampered pets and streetwise animals, all while providing a comedic take on social interactions among cats. The story follows Omar Ben Sufi, who becomes bored and restless in his luxurious home, where he enjoys a pampered existence. When a street cat named Ringtail Pete enters his life, Omar is introduced to the wild and adventurous world outside his garden wall. Over the course of his night out, Omar engages in the thrill of hunting frogs, befriends other street cats, and even finds himself in a catfight with a notorious bully named Ash-Can Sam. Ultimately, despite the chaos and misadventures, Omar discovers a sense of freedom and exhilaration that he never experienced within the confines of his high-society life, culminating in a humorous and enlightening exploration of self-discovery.
Colette
Barks and Purrs
"Barks and Purrs" by Colette is a charming collection of writings that captures the lives and thoughts of household pets, specifically a dog named Toby-Dog and a cat named Kiki-the-Demure, likely written in the early 20th century. Through whimsical dialogue and vivid characterizations, readers are introduced to the unique perspectives of these beloved pets as they reflect on their surroundings, experiences, and their relationships with their human companions. The opening of the collection sets a delightful tone, presenting Toby-Dog and Kiki-the-Demure in a relaxed afternoon ambiance as they engage in conversation. Toby laments his discomfort caused by flies and his busy mind, while Kiki exudes an air of indifference, attributing her apparent lethargy to the heat. Their exchanges are filled with humor and personality, giving insight into their individual characters as Toby's eager and naive demeanor contrasts sharply with Kiki's aloofness and complexity. This interplay of banter not only entertains but also lays a foundation for the thematic exploration of companionship, identity, and the often unspoken bond between humans and their pets throughout the collection.
Miranda Eliot Swan
Daisy: the autobiography of a cat
"Daisy: the Autobiography of a Cat" by Miranda Eliot Swan is a whimsical autobiography written in the late 19th century. The book takes the perspective of a cat named Daisy, recounting her early life, adventures, and reflections on the treatment of cats and animals in general. Through her charming anecdotes and heartfelt insights, Daisy aims to raise awareness about the kindness inherent in cat-human relationships. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to Daisy's world, beginning with her contemplation of cats' roles in society and her own humble beginnings. Daisy recalls her mother's wisdom about the harsh realities of cat life, mixed with a sense of fondness for the family that eventually cares for her. The tone is playful yet poignant, as it touches on themes of cruelty and compassion toward animals. Daisy’s reflections set the stage for a series of anecdotes that, while entertaining, also strive to educate readers on the value of kindness towards all animals.
Fritz Leiber
Kreativity For Kats
"Kreativity For Kats" by Fritz Leiber is a whimsical short story published in the early 1960s. This work falls into the genre of speculative fiction, presenting a unique perspective on the lives and inner thoughts of cats, particularly focusing on a young cat named Gummitch. The tale explores themes of creativity, existential musings, and the peculiarities of feline behavior through a fantastical lens. The story unfolds through the eyes of Gummitch, a young cat who grapples with feelings of disillusionment and depression as he longs for experiences beyond his feline existence. His life becomes a mystery for his owners as they notice the frequent spillage of water from his bowl, leading to a series of comical attempts to provide him with a proper drink. Ultimately, it is revealed that Gummitch is not just rejecting water; he is engaging in a form of artistic expression by playing with the water and creating mesmerizing patterns. The narrative highlights Gummitch's realization that he can find joy and fulfillment through his creativity, even as his owners struggle to understand his artistic impulses, firmly suggesting that inspiration can emerge from the most unexpected of places.
Ron Goulart
Ignatz
"Ignatz" by Ron Goulart is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The book explores themes of identity, societal transformation, and the peculiar phenomenon of applied lycanthropy—specifically, the ability for individuals to transform into cats as a therapeutic method to relieve stress and tension in a modern world. The story follows Glenn Wheelan, a teacher returning to his hometown of San Miguel, where a controversial practice has taken hold—people are encouraged to become cats through the methods of a man named Mr. Balderstone. Wheelan, deeply uncomfortable with this transformation trend and filled with disdain for cats, embarks on a campaign against it, creating leaflets and attempting to rally dissent. As he navigates his feelings for Karen Wylie, who supports the cat transformation for its therapeutic benefits, Wheelan becomes embroiled in a bizarre struggle between his values and the town's new identity. The climax culminates in a surreal and comedic confrontation involving a lecture attended by transformed townspeople, leading Wheelan to an unexpected escape into the water, symbolizing his rejection of this strange new world.
Unknown
The life and adventures of a cat
"The Life and Adventures of a Cat" by Henry Fielding and William Guthrie is a fictional narrative, likely written in the mid-18th century. The story revolves around the character of Tom, a cat with a remarkable life marked by various trials and tribulations, as well as humorous escapades. Through Tom's adventures, the book explores themes of cleverness, survival, and the complexity of feline nature. The opening of the tale sets the stage for a whimsical exploration of the characteristics and sagacity of cats, asserting their superiority over other animals through philosophical musings. It introduces Tom's birth from a lineage of poor but noble cats, detailing the chaos surrounding his early life that sees him lose his siblings and endure hardship in a world where cats must navigate human affairs. As the narrative unfolds, witty commentary and irony permeate the story, painting a rich image of Tom's exploits and the peculiar societal traits surrounding both humans and their feline companions.
Charles Miner Thompson
The Calico Cat
"The Calico Cat" by Charles Miner Thompson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Solomon Peaslee, a man who, despite his attempts at self-importance and community standing, is a figure of comedic folly who faces unexpected complications when he accidentally shoots a man while trying to hit a troublesome cat. Through humorous interactions with his wife and neighbors, the narrative explores themes of ambition, shame, and the folly of pride. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mr. Peaslee, who is eagerly anticipating his role as a grand juror, filled with a desire for recognition and respect in his community. However, this self-importance becomes complicated when he accidentally shoots a man named Peter Lamoury while aiming at the Calico Cat that has been a nuisance in his life. As Mr. Peaslee navigates the aftermath of this incident, including avoiding suspicion and grappling with the potential consequences for both himself and his neighbor's son, Jim Edwards, the plot builds tension and humor, setting the stage for a comedic unraveling of the situation.
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