Catwings

Le Guin, Ursula K. Catwings. New York : Orchard Books, 1988.

Plot: Mrs. Tabby shows little curiosity when her four kittens are born with wings. Yet, as they grow, the city becomes steadily more dangerous to any young cat. She eventually sends them off to find a better home away from the dogs, cars, and hostility. They find a green land with interesting smells and ample fish. Yet, their unusual gift causes fear among the local birds. Eventually, the owl attempts to take matters into her own talons, and the little cats must avoid her nighttime hunts. Still, their mother believed they could leave the city for a better life, and two farm children may lead the winged kittens to it.

Genre: Fantasy, Animals

Similar Titles: Jane on Her Own, The Warm Place, The Wizard of Oz

Reading Level: Grades 4-7


Personal Thoughts: Le Guin, also known for her Tales of Earthsea series, offers a delightfully fantastic story of strange animals in a familiar world. While cats' atypical trait finds mention, it does not form their primary motivation. They simply seek a better home, although they have a better means than usual to find it. The potential problems, such as finding food and avoiding predators finds realistic description without slipping into a depressing narrative. Lightheartedness and seriousness balance each other nicely in the title.

A total of four books make the Catwings series.