Catalyst - by Sarah Beth Durst (Paperback)

About the Book

Zoe must figure out how to keep a giant kitten safe in this magical adventure about change, expectation, and accepting all for who they truly are--regardless of shape or size.

Book Synopsis

Zoe must figure out how to keep a giant kitten safe in this middle grade fantasy adventure about change, expectation, and accepting all for who they truly are--regardless of shape or size.

Zoe named the kitten Pipsqueak, because she was so tiny, and promised to always take care of her. Then the kitten grew. And grew. Now she's bigger than a horse--and talking as well! Fleeing into the woods to escape the curious eyes of the Internet, Zoe and her best friend, Harrison, must keep their new secret pet hidden as they desperately search for a way to return her to normal size. If they don't succeed, Pipsqueak may never be safe again. But why did she grow so large in the first place? And what if trying to change her back leads to even greater danger?

• Talking Cat: Pipsqueak started as a tiny, pocket-sized kitten. Now she's bigger than a horse, full of opinions, and getting harder to hide every day.
• Best Friend Adventure: Join Zoe and her best friend Harrison as they team up to protect Pipsqueak from curious neighbors and the entire Internet.
• A Heartwarming Mystery: Zoe knows she has to keep Pipsqueak safe, but to do that, she must uncover the magical secret of why her kitten grew so large in the first place.
• Coming of Age Story: On the edge of turning twelve, Zoe has to learn that true acceptance means loving your friends for who they are, no matter their shape or size.

Review Quotes

"Durst masterfully interjects humor into a suspense-filled plot that twists and thickens as the group reaches its destination. A surprising but satisfying resolution brings this charming fantasy to a close." - Booklist (starred review)

"A fast-paced, engaging fantasy novel that cat lovers will adore." - School Library Journal

"Magical animals become a kooky, sweet metaphor for growing up." - Kirkus Reviews

"Durst imbues her tale with humor, thoroughly embracing its unusual premise with a sense of wonder." - Publishers Weekly

"Come for the horse-sized kitten, but stay for mystery, friendship, adventure and even more exceptional animals--Catalyst is a joyful read that's full of surprises!" - Emily Jenkins, New York Times bestselling co-author of the Upside-Down Magic series

About the Author

Sarah Beth Durst is the author of fantasy novels for children, teens, and adults. Winner of the Mythopoeic Award and an ALA Alex Award and thrice nominated for the Andre Norton Award for YA Science Fiction and Fantasy, she lives in New York. Visit her at www.sarahbethdurst.com and on Twitter @sarahbethdurst.