The Book Cat
This delightful story is based on the real-life cat who came to live at the Faber offices during WW2. It is written by Polly Faber, who is the publisher’s granddaughter. She flags up the affinity between writers and cats at the beginning, including the vital work done to assist her writing by her very own two ‘book cats’.
The real Morgan used to greet writers arriving at the publishing house. His fictional counterpart details his adventures from birth on the east-bound platform of the Piccadilly line, which was a bomb shelter, through the loss of his mother and sister in the Blitz, to taking part in the victory celebrations that marked the end of war. Readers of six years and over will discover so many interesting details about wartime through the eyes of this cat. There are the harsh realities like food rationing and the need to evacuate children to the countryside, but also hilarious goings-on after dark when Morgan sets up a caterwauling club where his friends can come to jive and swing.
The story is told with verve and tongue-in-cheek humour. Despite the subject, it feels like a reassuring, cosy read. At the heart of the story is a plan whereby Morgan organises the rescue of more than 20 vulnerable kittens by smuggling them out of London with unsuspecting authors. Of course, he trains them first to be helpful writers’ assistants so they all get to stay in their new homes. The very accessible text is accompanied by lively and endearing illustrations by Clara Vulliamy. They add another level of fun—and sometimes pathos to a story which offers a satisfying emotional path through complex territory. A great addition to classroom book shelves, where WW2 is on the curriculum. But also one to curl up with at home.
