Celebrate National Tabby Day by Adventuring with One Extraordinary Tabby

Making the Most of All Nine Lives: The Extraordinary Life of Buffy the Cat
Sandy Robins and Paul Smulson

It is common to recognize a cat’s good or interesting qualities by comparing them to a dog, but that presumes that dogs and their personalities are superior to cats’. Buffy isn’t like a dog; he’s just one really cool cat. Paul Smulson introduces the book by acknowledging that “most people don’t realize they are cat lovers until they get an opportunity to interact with a cat,” as Smulson was one of these people before Buffy entered his life. It’s difficult to believe the dad and photographer of such a cat could ever feel ambivalent toward our feline friends, but it’s easy to see how this cat could so quickly change his mind.

Buffy the Cat is an orange tabby who lives dangerously, adventurously, and fearlessly. He is also the most tolerant cat ever. Buffy plays in the snow, a round on the golf course, and even watches the Cubs play, from the stands, all while looking totally at peace to be there. His antics are often unbelievable and always delightful, and are made so much more enjoyable by Buffy’s obvious, enthusiastic participation. Buffy is never dragged on any excursion, but rather he approaches all of his roles with a sense of diligence and gusto. He wears many hats (literally) and is more than happy to do so.

Sandy Robins narrates Buffy’s adventures with the expertise of a woman who has loved more than her fair share of cats. While Buffy’s bold personality is already evident in every photo, Robins gives us a further, and often humorous, insight into the thoughts and priorities of a not-so-common house cat. Her comical ‘mewsings’ about current affairs are often laugh-out-loud worthy, her use of cat puns is purrrfection, and her fluency in feline is crystal clear. Not only does the reader gain a better understanding of cats everywhere, but it is nearly impossible for him to resist a growing adoration as well.

Buffy is inquisitive and determined, satisfied and haughty, and entirely all too human. Smulson captures Buffy’s zest for all nine lives and Robins puts it to words in superb combination. Cat lovers and cat moderates (aka cat pre-lovers) alike will be enchanted by Buffy’s many adventures and inspired by the incredible bond between a man and his cat.

In honor of sharing Buffy’s inspiring ‘tails,’ April 30th has been deemed National Tabby Day. Coincidentally, April 30th is also Adopt a Shelter Pet Day. Order your copy of Making the Most of All Nine Lives here and enjoy the adventure curled up next to your own adored, adopted feline.