The Nine Emotional Lives of Cats: A Journey Into the Feline Heart

This book was written in an interesting, almost philosophical way, asking more questions and not giving a whole lot of answers. That isn't a criticism, just an observation. The author will give an example of an emotion in cats, tell a story, then give his own opinion of what it means. Then he'll question it, and say, well, maybe it could also mean this. It's an interesting style because he doesn't just feed you information, rather he forces you to think about it on your own. It's quite enjoyable. Plus the anecdotes are hilarious, and any cat owner can relate to them. Yossie with the strategically-placed sponges, Minna and her banana leaf prey... a book any cat-fancier will enjoy.

Before I was halfway through I decided to buy several copies to give as gifts. I laughed right out loud more than once. There are lots of insights into why cats act the way they do. Very easy to read, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

I was given this book as a Christmas gift and just loved it. I finished reading it two days ago and was sorry to see it end. Although I don't agree with Mr. Masson about one of his viewpoints (i.e., my cats are strictly indoor cats and I honestly believe they are happy that way - and certainly safer in the place we live), no one can doubt his devotion and utter love and respect for these beautiful creatures. If I lived in New Zealand as he does, with a more secluded setting than what I have now, perhaps I could give my cats the lifestyle and outdoor freedom he is able to.I enjoyed this book immensely and I laughed and cried throughout it. The five cats came alive on the pages; they became my own cats for the short time it took to read this awesome book. I could just see them playing on the beach; running up the path of the rainforest; jumping into the kayak; interacting cat-style with the neighbors' dogs. I was enchanted by the images Mr. Masson described and with the possibility of how things would be for our animals in an ideal world. Perhaps that is what heaven will be like for our pets.I highly recommend it to anyone who loves and respects the individuality of each cat who graces our lives, and also anyone who can respect viewpoints that differ from our own and can keep an open mind. What is important and apparent is that Mr. Masson is a totally devoted cat lover who respects and appreciates the felines who share our world.I've passed this book onto my husband who I know will love it too because he loves animals, particularly our three cats. Thank you to my sis for giving it to me for Christmas. And thank you, Mr. Masson, for putting into words a well-deserved tribute to the emotional lives of cats. Although their ways of communicating are different from ours, when you listen and observe as closely as he does, we are ultimately more connected than we could ever believe.

Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson graciously offers us a glimpse into the mind and heart of our feline companions. As a former wildlife biologist, I find this exploration refreshing. Often, he qualifies his thoughts by writing "This is what I've heard." or "This is what I'd like to believe." I enjoyed the author's openess and willingness to let us in on what he really wants to believe while mixing in scientific fact. It was a balanced weaving of both.I had the opportunity to hear the author speak on his book tour and was moved by his insights. I was also impressed by his strong opinions. Bravo! He believes that cats can't be truly happy unless they are allowed to roam free (cat door or flap). They can be content if confined indoors, but not truly happy!