The Tygrine Cat
Grade 4–7—Readers will immediately know that great and evil forces are at work in the world of cats when they meet catling Mati, alone aboard a merchant vessel that docks somewhere in England. His mother was the last Tygrine queen, and on Mati's young and inexperienced shoulders rests the fate of all catkind, as the powerful Sa Mau are determined to obliterate the Tygrine and rule all felines themselves. In this first novel, Iserles has created a rich history for cats, some of it based on ancient Egyptian religion and myths. The intriguing backstory is revealed as Mati attempts to integrate himself into a feral community that has its own customs and traditions—a community that is wary of strangers. As he learns more of the ancient lore, he understands his role and importance to cat society and struggles to block the malevolent ambition of the Sa Mau. Friendship, loyalty, and treachery loom large in this sweeping tale that will be appealing to readers who enjoy animal fantasy, particularly Erin Hunter's "Warriors" series (HarperCollins).—Sharon Grover, Hedberg Public Library, Janesville, WICopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.