Varjak Paw.

VARJAK PAW. SF Said. 2003/2004. Read by George Guidall. 3 tapes. 4.5 hrs. Recorded Books. #97718. 1-4025-8448-2. $28.75. Vinyl; plot, reader notes. J*

Varjak Paw is the youngest member of the Mesopotamian Blue cats who have lived in the Contessa's house since their ancestor, the hero Jalal. "traveled to the ends of the earth," and found his way there. In all those years, they have never gone outside. One day a mysterious Gentleman with two large black cats arrives and carries out the body of the Contessa; life will never be the same. In his young life, Varjak has been scorned as not being a real Mesopotamian Blue because his eyes are the wrong color. Now Varjak sees his storytelling grandfather first lose his position as head of the family and then lose his life to the black cats. Varjak is alive with the tales his grandfather has told him about Jalal and his magical powers and the promise he has made to find the mysterious creature called "dog" to rescue the family; he escapes into the real world outside. He makes friends with the alley cats and at night he dreams of Jalal, who teaches him the seven skills that are like martial arts that will help him save his family and the city cats from the wicked Gentleman and show him that he is indeed the quintessential Blue.

Guidall narrates this haunting tale using the power of his dramatic voice, impeccable timing, and care for every word he utters. If it is possible, he increases its literary value. Readers who enjoyed Ken Oppel's Silverwing trilogy and other animal fantasies will relish this as well.

J--Recommended for junior high school students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescents and their teachers.

*--The asterisk highlights exceptional books.

Mary Purucker, Beverly Hills P.L., Beverly Hills. CA