What (am I currently reading)?

I am currently reading The Zen of Cat by Carla Francis.   This self help and personal development book (interwoven with lots about cats) is being published by Pan MacMillan on 27 June 2023. 

Book Blurb   (taken from  https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/  )

There’s no doubt cats are a meaningful feature of Japanese life: from folklore to fashion, they’ve left a giant paw print on the culture. It’s believed that felines first appeared in Japan with the arrival of Buddhism via China in around 552, when their main role was to stop vermin from damaging scriptures.

But what can we learn from these philosophical felines? Surely they can teach us a thing or two, through the wisdom gleaned over the centuries residing in ancient temples and co-existing with artists, courtesans, monks and writers.

The Zen of Cat is interwoven with stories and facts about cats, Japan and Zen philosophy. Carla Francis includes discussions with Japanese cat lovers, and invites reflection and ‘mindful mewsings’ on life through an A-Z of Japanese words to inspire.

Cats are unburdened by worry. They maintain an enviable equilibrium. Maybe we can too?

Why (have I chosen to read it)?

Because I read and loved the memoir  The Cat With Three Passports by CJ Fentiman, so I was keen to see what this author (same author, different name) was now writing.  So far I am really enjoying the insights into Japanese culture, the cat references, and also the great ideas about how to be more Zen-like in everyday life.    

While (I am reading it)

Having just returned from the UK, this week is all about quality time with my cats (plus a few walks up mountains etc), so here are two pics of my feline companions. 

All the best,  Emma of EmmabBooks.com