No One Noticed the Cat

I reread this book (nicknamed Niffy) about five time a year to remind myself that cats are wonderful people and that good can triumph over evil.

Prince Jamas is left to rule his kingdom without his regent, Mangan. He finds solance in Mangan's cat, Niffy, who is more than just a housecat. Amongst the trails and tribulations of ruling, Jamas realizes that there is more than meets the eye with this cat. Anne McCaffrey has done a wonderful job! This story is short, but it is soo well told. Within 124 pages we know and feel for Jamas and have such a sense of Niffy. I know all about the Kingdom, the history and neighoboors that I didn't feel lost. This wasn't hurried story, all the details that were needed, were in there. Anne left out all those stupid fillers that most authors use. A very sweet and fast moving story. I recommend to all of Anne's readers. (Even to those who don't like Anne's stories!)

When the regent, Mangan Tighe died, he had already provided for the future peace and prosperity of Esplania. Young Prince Jamas had a smooth ascension to the throne and he was seldom seen without his cat, Niffy. Unknown to all, Niffy had been Mangan's last safety touch for the young prince. She was not an ordinary cat. When Jamas takes Willow as his bride, caution becomes almost second nature. A treacherous and greedy Queen had plans of killing Jamas, and a few others, to gain their kingdoms. As always, no one notices Niffy, so she is able to do as Mangan intended. Niffy would save the kingdom and the new royal family. ***Ahhh, if only there were more cats like Niffy! This book is only available in hard back, but it is worth it! A KEEPER!***

Although Anne McCaffrey normally wirtes novels, it is nice to see her returning to the world of short stories. I can say that I have read all of her books with the exception of one or two and this one is a favorite. It is truly an intriguing little story. I recommend it to people who are looking for a quick little book to read on a rainy day.

For those readers who've expressed disappointment with more recent publications from Ms. McCaffrey I'd just like to say that the variety she has been able to provide has been refreshing. Readers wanting nothing but the same ol' stories, written just like everything else the author cranks out, strikes much like tunnel vision for literature.Bookes like this and "Coelura" have been given to us as quick trips. A little bit of escape without packing a suitcase. If all a person eats is pasta, eventually there would be no joy from eating. She provides new meals, a different offering now and then. I found the book utterly delightful and came away with a pleasant feeling. Her other sagas are where I go for the emotional rollercoasters and complete adventure.I can't say I've ever been disappointed by an Anne McCaffrey penned story, with and without contributions of other authors.