THE BOOKSTORE CAT

An alphabetical celebration of the venerable bookstore cat.

Inspired by the Victorian party game “The Minister’s Cat,” in which players take turns describing the minister’s cat with adjectives all in alphabetical order, Busby describes a slightly chubby marmalade cat in a bow tie who lives, of course, in a bookstore. “The bookstore cat is an Adorable cat. / The bookstore cat is a Bossy / (very bossy) / but Cuddly cat.” He is also darting, excited, friendly, and gorgeous (but humble). In Santoso’s illustrations—one or more for each letter—the bookstore pussycat displays the cited characteristic, often interacting with the shop owner and customers. As a jealous cat, he glares angrily out the store window as the owner pets a puppy. As a mysterious cat, he hides in the shadows of the mystery section. He crouches, waiting, before pouncing on a Xenops (somehow this Central American bird has made it to this quaint, diverse North American commercial district). “By closing time, he’s a Zigzag cat,” racing back and forth across the store…only to end up in his loving owner’s arms. Whether they know their ABCs or not, both cat and book lovers will appreciate this and may take up the Victorian game. Santoso’s delicate illustrations look like colored pencil and are a perfect match for the playful text. The shop owner has beige skin and dark, curly hair.

All Bookish Cat Devotees Enjoy!