The Feline Mystique - by Clea Simon (Paperback)

About the Book

This sophisticated exploration of the bond between women and their cats examines everything from the history of cats (Cleopatra) to the stereotypes of women who choose to live with cats (the "cat lady") to the power of female images relating to cats (Catwoman).

Book Synopsis

What is it with women and cats? The Feline Mystique is the first serious examination of the intense relationship between woman and their cats and of the repercussions that bond can have on others. Richly researched and searchingly personal, The Feline Mystique uses history, science, art, and literature as touchpoints to explain and explore contemporary women's lives with their cats.

From a glamorous tiger trainer to a feral-cat rescuer, from a show breeder to Simon and her own relationship with the gray longhair Cyrus, this book will introduce you to women both ferocious and nurturing and animals both whimsical and noble. It's a fresh, fascinating exploration of the timeless bond between women and cats, and will deepen your understanding of your relationship with your own feline-be he or she tiger or tabby.

A cat person's answer to Pack of Two and The Secret Life of Dogs, The Feline Mystique is an eye-opening and soul-soothing book for all cat lovers.

Review Quotes

"A luminous treatise on the ancient and sacred bond between females and felines...delves longingly into the profound depths of feeling our cats can provoke."

"Like catnip for the soul, this book is a marvelously written and researched look into the love affair that women share with their beloved cats."

"Simon blends historical, cultural, and literary references with personal observations in an eloquent, unabashed paean to this...interspecies bond."

"Wide-ranging and perfectly pitched: both sensitive and sensible."

About the Author

Clea Simon is a Boston-based writer and journalist, who contributes regularly to the Boston Globe, the New York Times, Ms., and a variety of other publications. She is the author of Mad House: Growing Up in the Shadow of Mentally Ill Siblings and Fatherless Women: How We Change After We Lose Our Dads.