THE CITY OF LOST CATS

An abandoned mansion inhabited by cats is set to be demolished, but one small girl might be the key to saving it.

When 12-year-old Fiona once again attempts to run away from the tiny apartment she shares with her aunt, she happens upon a dilapidated, historic home, known to its feline residents as The City. Perhaps saving this place and these lost cats is the Destiny that Fiona’s been seeking ever since her parents died, leaving her adrift. She quickly realizes this will be no easy feat: Destruction is imminent, and Fiona and the cats all struggle to determine whom to trust and whom to blame. Third-person chapters shift among the perspectives of Fiona (who has dark eyes and curly dark hair), three of the cats (each with a distinct personality), and a demolition worker. Delightful poetic interludes from two lost parakeets who also live in the house, as well as various notes, flyers, and news bulletins, appear between chapters, adding intrigue and offering additional insights into what’s happening in the diverse community. With all these different elements and perspectives, readers may at first require patience, but everything comes together in a rewarding and exciting way with surprising twists and reveals. Fiona’s journey to advocacy is inspiring, and the book thoughtfully touches on not just the need for shelters for animals, but the human housing crisis as well.

A gratifying, bighearted tale about community, belonging, and cats.