Why are cats and mice enemies? Why do cats always land on their feet? Are cats as smart as they seem? Here's a story behind each of these feline traits. For centuries, people everywhere, from Tibet to Oman to Scotland to the United States, have been fascinated with cats and their intriguing personalities. In this captivating collection, New York Times best-selling author Jane Yolen has gathered and adapted cat stories, sayings, and nursery rhymes from around the world. The glowing jewel-like illustrations of cats galore in their native homes have been lavishly painted by Hala Wittwer.

The Mouse and the cat -- Nursery rhymes -- The King of the cats -- The cat and the fox (Aesop) -- Rambé and Ambé -- What people say about cats -- The pious cat -- Why tiger is angry at cat -- The cat and the hen (Aesop) -- Cat and Rat -- Why the cat falls on her feet -- Selected reading.