**FELINE FICTION FIX** Book Reviews with Amber at The Mewton-Clawson Library #284 featuring **The Little Book Of Extraordinary Cats** by Anita Kelsey PLUS Friendly Fill-Ins + Photo Fails Blog Hop

Hello gorgeous library guests 

and 

Welcome to the Mewton-Clawson Library at BBHQ 

Thank mew for joining me in the stacks today. I must admit that I'm feeling quite smug right now, snuggled in my blanket.

Melvyn has been in the library since 8 a.m., dusting the 'A' stack, straightening up all the books, and making sure they're in the correct order.

If mew missed what all the kerfuffle was about, check out last week's post here.

And tomorrow, he's starting the 'B's! MOL

Plus, I've got the Library Mice watching him very closely to make sure he's not shirking.

I've got so many jobs for him that he won't catch his breath, and perhaps he'll think twice about disrespecting the Head Librarian in the future.

Anyhoo, what books have mew been reading this week?

Apart from this week's top pick, I've also reread (R.R.):

King and Maxwell by David Baldacci - King and Maxwell BK6 (R.R.)

Men at Arms by Terry Pratchett - Disworld Series BK15  (R.R.)

Storm Front by Jim Butcher - Harry Dresden BK 1 - (R.R.)

 Sinners  by Larry Correia - Monster Hunter Memoirs B.K. 2 (R.R.)

It has been a pretty productive reading week, but I do need to purrchase some new books, so I need to sweet-talk Parsley into lending me his credit card.

Today the P.A. is also joining in Friday Fill-ins Blog Hop with the pawesome 15 & Meowing and Four-Legged Furballs.

1. I feel _____________ when I think of _______________________.

2. ________________________ is my greatest achievement.

3. I haven’t had much luck with _________ lately.

4. ________ is the time of day when I _________.

The P.A.'s answers are...

1. I feel all kinds of sad when I think of Basil. I don't think I will truly ever get over his departure to The Rainbow Realm. I miss that epically epic little dude more than I could ever explain.

2. ________________________ is my greatest achievement. I don't know how to answer this, I don't measure things on that kind of matrix. But I will say adopting the cats that no one else wanted, aka The B Team is tops if you were to apply it to the statement above.

3. I haven’t had much luck with my writing lately. I've got a severe case of writing avoidance again, perhaps if I post the first chapter of The Purrminator, then I am obliged to be productive and churn out a chapter a week... maybe!

4. 4pm is the time of day when I begin to feel tired. But then at around 5pm my energy reserves ping back in! LOL

Today, as it's the last Friyay of the month, we're also joining in the furrbulous...

Drop by marvellous Mudpie's blog at www.mochasmysteriesmeows.com to join.

Smooch is here sharing a photo fail from way, way back in May 2013.

This was Smooch's first Spring at BBHQ. He'd been part of the B Team for about six months when this photo was taken.

He was being a proper little heathen and was actually tearing the grass up and then spitting it out.

I remember this incident like it was yesterday, he was so aggressive with the grass, something must have really upset his boggle! MOL

This week's top book pick is...

Mewton-Clawson Library Copy

The Little Book Of Extraordinary Cats

Fifteen unique and unforgettable true stories of exceptional cats

by

Anita Kelsey

       Here's the book blurb:      

Discover the captivating world of our fabulous felines in The Little Book Of Extraordinary Cats. Join Anita Kelsey on a journey through fifteen remarkable tales celebrating the courage, resilience, and affection of our beloved feline companions, from pioneering space traveller Felicette to therapy cat London Meow. Whether you’re a cat lover or seeking heart-warming stories of human-animal connection, this book is a must-read.

**Firstly I have to let mew all know that I was given a free copy of this book in e-format in exchange for a fair review**

Anita Kelsey's "The Little Book of Extraordinary Cats" takes mew on a purr-tastic journey through the lives of fifteen exceptional felines, sharing remarkable true stories which highlight feline bravery, strength, and the incredible ability to overcome adversity at its worst, plus a furbulous sprinkling of cat'a'licious devotion. From the pawe-inspiring adventures of an actual space-travelling cat called Felicette to the heartwarming effect of Stubbs who became an Honorary Mayor, each tale immerses readers in the unique and unforgettable world of each of these remarkable cats.

It's not all catnip and cream or sunshine and glitter. Some tales are quite heartwrenching to read, especially if mew are sensitive to the plight and well-being of anipals. But know, that all is well in the end, thanks to some pawesome peeps, quick thinking and big hearts.

The book also meautifully depicts the deep and meaningful connections between humans and their feline companions, offering a poignant and uplifting exploration of the extraordinary bonds that exist between us. Plus, it has many meautiful photographs and gorgeous illustrations sharing these incredible felines.

Whether mew're a devoted cat lover or appreciate heartwarming stories of human-anipal connections, this book is a must-read that will leave mew inspired and deeply moved by the incredible lives of these extraordinary cats and some of the trials and tribulations they endured.

On a final note, this book is exquisitely presented and would make the purrfect gift for anypawdy who loves cats, and happy endings of the feline variety!

A TRULY TOP PAW READ! 

*    *    *

• Paperback: 154 pages
• Publisher: Nielsen UK (5 May 2024)

My Rating Scale

Ratings of:

The Little Book Of Extraordinary Cats

Overall Enjoyment

Other Fun Blog Hops to Join Today

          Brian's Home   Catblogosphere    Feline Friday   Nature Friday    Flashback Friday   Friendship Friday          

I really hope mew enjoy the book if mew choose to read it.

It's time for me to say BFN or bye-for-now, as mew knows the drill: so many books, so little time. I'll be back next week with another specially paw-picked book just for mew. Don't forget that all my previous reviews can be found on my Book Review page.

Until next time...

Keep calm and read more books.

Amber 

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The BBHQ Midweek News Round-Up ~ Fudge's Sneaky Spot ~ Pandora's On The Fence, and Melvyn's Wearing This Weeks Top Pick Bandana **PLUS** SUNSPOT OF THE WEEK

Furbulous Greetings Supurr Furiends

Welcome to the BBHQ midweek news round-up!

Well, it's been a bit of a mixed bag weather-wise the last few days, with more rain and clouds than sun.

So there was no outdoor painting or much gardening happening at all, but the P.A. will get to it in due course, on the next sunny weekend.

And the Flower of the Week is a beautiful delphinium—just look at that pawesome shade of blue!

 The Catnip Seeds Have Been Planted

Oh, we forgot to mention a couple of weeks ago that we planted this year's catnip seeds. Some are just starting to peek out of the top of the soil, so we'll share their progress next week.

And yes, we know we're a little late planting, but other stuff got in the way.

Anyhoo, let's look at this week's top headlines.

First up in the news this week

Fudge's Sneaky Spot

It was quite nice late on Caturday afternoon, so Fudge found himself a nice little sneaky hotspot on the deck.

Next up in the news

Pandora's On The Fence

Pandora was on the fence watching what everypawdy else was up to!

Finally this week

Melvyn's Modelling The Top Bandana Pick

This week Melvyn is modelling the last bandana of May.

Melvyn took less than three minutes to shoot this week's video; he was on it! MOL

Check out Melvyn strutting his stuff on your preferred social media channel:

TikTok

Instagram

YouTube

 

Which one should he model next?

NONE!

Ahem, if mew missed Amber's post on Friday, mew will know that Melvyn has been banned from modelling for the month of June. Instead, Amber has imposed many library duties to keep him occupied.

He was quite upset when he found out last night that there were no new bandanas, and that Amber has put her paw down and is exerting her authority for his insolent behaviour.

Hopefully, he'll learn his lesson and be back on the catwalk in July with a brand-new collection.

EXTRA, EXTRA!

Check out this week's sunspot of the week

 

HALF-IN, HALF-OUT SUNSPOTS AT BBHQ

Fudge nailed clawed the half-in, half-out vibe!!

Smooch took it to an all-new level with this angle! MOL

And Parlsey didn't quite make the brief being two-thirds in and one-third out! MOL

Who do mew think had the best spot this week?

That's a wrap for us today, Amber will be back on Friday with another fab book just for mew and if mew missed any other posts, here are the links:

The B Team's Selfie

Cats have Purroblems Too

Amber's Latest Book Review

Wing Commander Basil & The B Team 

Don't furget to subscribe and never miss another post! 

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CATS HAVE PROBLEMS TOO! with Dr Basil ~ Featuring Today's Despurrate Dilemma **HELP! I HATE CAR RIDES!**

  Welcome to 

Happy Monday, furry floofers

Welcome to another episode of Cats Have Purroblems Too, where I give epically epic advice to cats with despurrate dilemmas too great for them to solve alone. 

 Take a seat, and read today's despurrate dilemma and my solution.

Also, mew may be pondering on what my professional credentials are, so purrlease purruse the list below:

Ph.D. in Kitty Psychology & Psychiatry

BSc (Hons) Headology  

Psy.D. Furry Logic

 MS. Fuzzy Logic

MA. Common Sense

My other Professional Credits include:

NOM Master
Snoozy Savant
Purr Master

AdvoCat of T.L. Treatment
Touchy Feely Therapy or T.F.T
Purrfume Aroma Treatment or P.A.T.

I can help mew to solve all your Pet Peeves, Purrsonal Problems and Despurrate Dilemmas, no matter how great or small they may be.

Plus, I only use the very latest techniques, some of which I have developed myself over my long and esteemed career, which include:

 Purr Therapy ~ For Uptight and Particularly Stressed Kitties 

Nom Zen ~The Art of Nomming in Total Tranquility 

ZZZ's Snooze Sensation ~ Including Mewsical CatNap Sessions tailored to your purrsonal requirements

YogiCat Meditation ~ Stretches and Breathing Techniques for the Severely Stressed & Overworked

Intense CatNip Therapy ~ This treatment speaks for itself (I find it very beneficial)

I am also an AdvoCat of Tough Love coupled with a healthy dose of common kitty sense

Purrfume Aroma Treatment ~ A Sensory Smelling Session S.S.S. to calm and soothe with highly aromatic blends of specially selected scents

To help mew release all your stresses and worries just drop by my clinic held here or, alternatively email me your purroblem, and I'll answer here. If mew require to remain anonymous or anon, purrlease include that in your email. 

Mew can contact me directly at the following address:

DearDrBasil (at) gmail (dot) com

So come and sit on my supurr comfy couch, reee-lax, breathe deeply and tell me of your troubles, as I'm ready, willing and able to help.

This is one of my cases via email:  

HELP! I HATE CAR RIDES!!!!

Dear Dr Basil, I hope this message finds mew well. I'm writing to mew in a state of utter distress and confusion. My human, whom I love and adore, has been subjecting me to the most harrowing experience known to catkind - car rides.

Every time they open that metal contraption, I know I'm in for a rollercoaster of emotions, none of them pleasant. The loud noises, the strange movements, and the unfamiliar scents all combine to create a terror-inducing experience that leaves me shaking in my fur.

Dr. Basil, please, I implore mew, help me find a way to communicate to my human that car rides are simply not my cup of milk. Yours fluffing terrified, Roger

This is my Expert Reply

Today, I use the colour BLUE, which is the pawesomely soothing colour of CALM and hopefully will be the purrfect choice for this particular purroblem.

Dear Roger,

I understand that car rides can be a source of great distress for many felines. But sadly dude, we cats can't avoid the occasional car ride. But don't panic, I have some top tips to help mew and your human navigate this issue and hopefully make the experience less traumatic and terrifying for mew: 1. Create positive associations: Encourage your human to associate car rides with positive experiences. This could involve offering your favorite treats, engaging with beloved toys, and gradually introducing short rides to pleasant destinations such as the park or a friend's house. 2. Gradual exposure: Start by spending time in the stationary car without actually going for a drive. This can help desensitize mew to the car environment and reduce anxiety associated with the unfamiliar sounds and movements. 3. Comfort and security: Ensure that your human provides a comfortable and secure carrier or seat for you during car rides. Familiar scents from home and cozy bedding can help alleviate anxiety and create a sense of safety. 4. Calming aids: Your human can explore natural calming aids such as pheromone sprays or calming treats to help reduce your stress during car rides. These aids can provide a soothing effect and help create a more relaxed environment for mew. 5. Consult a veterinarian: If your fear of car rides is particularly severe, it may be beneficial to seek advice from a veterinarian. They can provide further guidance and support tailored to your specific needs, including potential behavioral or medical interventions to help address your distress. I hope these detailed tips provide some relief and help improve your car ride experiences. Remember, communication is key, so don't hesitate to express your feelings to your human in the most persuasive ways possible.

Yours most sincerely

Dr. Basil

@ The Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic T.M.

____________________________

Today's Top Tip is:

~ Always Take Your Time -  Sometimes New Experiences Need A Gradual Approach  ~

 

_________________________________

If mew can relate to this purroblem or feel that mew are in need of any assistance, purrlease leave a comment to: Dear Dr Basil.... or email me directly and I'll get back to mew.

Thank mew all for joining me today at The Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic, and I'll be back in a couple of weeks with another open clinic and a new case study.

Until then, Keep Calm and Purr

Dr Basil

Ph.D. ~ BSc. (Hons) ~ Psy.D. ~ MS ~ MA

'The Paw Print Seal of Approval'

Copyright and All Rights Reserved @ Dr Basil ~ Cats Have Purroblems Too Clinic

(T.M. ~ Totally Meowvellous)

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