Exotic Cat

Children's Literature

This book is part of the "Learning about Cats" series, intended to present information about various lesser-known breeds to intermediate readers. Each book has an identical format, consisting of facts about the breed and tips about cat care. Written in very simple, straightforward prose, this volume tells something about the history, breeding and showing of the Exotic cat and is illustrated with clear, bright-colored photographs. Its round, stocky body, snub nose and short legs give the Exotic a somewhat comical appearance and have caused it to be nicknamed "the teddy bear cat." This breed was introduced only in the 1960s by crossing the Persian and the American Shorthair. Unfortunately, because of its short nose, the Exotic is often prone to respiratory problems. Included in the volume are a "quick facts" page, a short glossary, an index and some relevant addresses and Internet sites. These information books may interest young readers who want to know more about a particular, rather esoteric breed, but most children, after all, have acquired their cats from neighbors or the Humane Society. Owners of the more usual domestic cats may find the sections about breed standards and breed rescue organizations a bit too technical for pleasure reading. Unless a child is a true cat fanatic, the series seems more suited to research for report writing, always with guidance from the teacher toward presentation of the gathered information in some more imaginative or artistic form. The series includes books about Abyssinian, Maine Coon, Persian and Siamese cats. 2002, Capstone, $21.26. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft