Review: `You now hold the collection of my wisdom in your hands; Enjoy!'
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 25, 2013
And with that little introduction to Artemis the cat from sensitive author Gisela Hausmann we are off an running through a book of image pleasures in photographs of Artemis, Hausmann's cat, and words of wisdom that become far more wise because they come from a lovable animal. But before reviewing this gook by Gisela Hausmann I'd like to share a lingering opinion written in a review of her very important previous boo NAKED DETERMINATION (a must read!): `But I stray from reviewing a book, having become so attached to the writer through her many adventures and shared lessons. The point behind Gisela Hausmann's putting this book in our hands (rather our eyes, as it hasn't been printed as yet) is to offer succor and reassurance that if she can survive and triumph in the incidents she relates so well, then it follows that we each can, too. And the pleasure of reading her NAKED DETERMINATION is a heavy dollop of good hearted hugs you can feel right through the stories and the follow-up thoughts and paste-it notes she leaves for us. We really feel we know her - partly because she peppers her book with photographs that add warmth to the cycle of learning. She becomes our friend, and where better to find advice for making it through another struggle?' Gisela Hausmann writes authentic, straightforward books and WHY DO CATS HAVE NINE LIVES is no exception.Hausmann take photos of Artemis and then matches some wise concepts that the photo's attitude suggests, statements like `You are the ruler of your destiny: Show that you know' (the photo is Artemis full in control of the chair which indicates a vantage of empowerment); `Be fearless! Go out on a limb - that is where the bird is' (Artemis is in a tree with a definite plan to pounce look); `Search for knowledge! Find what you love!  (Artemis is pondering book choices from a spot on the bookshelf); `Follow your instincts and you'll never be afraid' (Artemis in the garden pawing the tail of a little snake, considering attack...or not).And so it goes. There are twenty-four photos and accompanying bits of wisdom. It works beautifully, both as a book to read if you love cats and as a way to introduce philosophy to youngsters and to yourself! After all, if these concepts provide nine lives for cats, just ponder the possibilities of digesting these ideas. Keep you eye on Gisela Hausmann - she is a grounded philosopher of the day. Grady Harp, August 13.