The Cat Who Went to Heaven

This book has been a favorite of my family mambers since it was first published in 1930 (My mother received it for her 10th birthday). The book is an excellent primer on Buddhism, and is entertaining and inspirational.Mercy is the message presented throughout the book, and this message is complemented by the message that true goodness comes from within our hearts,not from "leaders" mandating rigid belief systems. The story is that of a little cat who helps an poor artist to achieve greatness (in his craft and in his spirit) through compassion and self-sacrifice. My siblings and I grew up with this book. I read this book (it is only about 70 pages)to my mother the night before she died, and I re-read it tonight, on the eve of my 50th birthday. Although technically a "children's book" (and a Newberry Winner), it is a book that grows with you and, in many ways, is even more meaningful when you read it as an adult.

This was my favourite children's book (well, in a dead heat with Lewis Carroll's works) when I was a child, and it remains so to this day. It is sensitive, lyrical, and captivating. I've given it to many friends, of many ages and many cultures, and all of them have liked it. It is one book I can commend without reservation: a rare and true delight.

This short tale, which won the 1931 Newbery Medal for best contribution to American children's literature, is about a poor artist in Japan who is commissioned to paint a picture of Buddha's death. The story teaches children a little about Buddhism and about the concept of reincarnation. The artist paints pictures of the animals coming to be blessed by Buddha. But, legend said that cats never came. The artist's cat, Good Fortune, wishes to be included in the painting. Finally, the artist relents and Good Fortune dies from joy. But the priests now no longer want the painting since it doesn't agree with legend. The next day, however, they change their minds when a "miracle" occurs. Coatsworth was well-known for her children's stories and this short story is one of the classics of children literature.

I read this book as a child and am ever so glad that my own children can enjoy it. As a cat lover I greatly appreciate the beatiful and award-winning illustrations. However, the story itself is incredibly moving. I believe the lesson I learned as a child is that animals are very important to our lives and our stewardship of them is a grave responsibility. The artist's relationship with Good Fortune changed his heart and, consequently, his life. The intolerant priest learned to forgive.