Cats of the world

Shaw, a.k.a. Kitten Lady (Tiny, but Mighty), and her husband, professional photographer Andrew Marttila (Shop Cats of New York), traveled to 31 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America in search of cats in their habitats. The result reads like a travelogue, describing the cities and countries they visited, providing some history of the locations, and, through many interviews, offering the perspectives of the people there on their relationship to cats. Also included are conversations with local animal rescuers in each location, with a focus on how they are working to reduce the number of homeless cats. Locations include pubs, countryside spots, seaports, historic centers, and tourist locations; in all places, the cat populations rules. VERDICT An engaging text accompanied by beautiful photographs in which the wonderful settings are secondary to the multitude of cats to swoon over. Best for animal lovers and supporters. --Jacqueline Parascandola