Skip to content
A world of books. Your next discovery.My reading list

Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats

Saved on this device — no account needed
Cover of Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by Thomas Stearns Eliot
Year: 1967
Language: en
Edition: Revised Edition
Pages: 46
ISBN-13: 9780156685702
Dimensions:
Weight: 1 Pounds
Dewey Decimal: 811.5
Buy on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Editorial overview Touché

Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by Thomas Stearns Eliot is a revised edition published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 1967. This collection of poetry features playful verses that celebrate the whimsical nature of cats, capturing the essence of these beloved pets. Originally published in 1939, the book has delighted readers and cat enthusiasts alike, showcasing Eliot’s unique perspective as he introduces various feline characters.

In this edition, readers will encounter a delightful homage to cats of all kinds, from the merry to the fierce. The poems are accompanied by Edward Gorey’s charming pen and ink illustrations, which provide a fresh interpretation of memorable characters such as “Mr. Mistoffelees,” “Growltiger,” and “Macavity: the Mystery Cat.” This collection not only highlights Eliot’s humorous take on feline life but also connects to the iconic musical Cats, making it a captivating read for both poetry lovers and cat aficionados. With 46 pages of engaging content, this book is a whimsical exploration of the world of cats.


Official synopsis Publisher

The inspiration for the iconic musical Cats, T. S. Eliot’s classic and delightful collection of poetry about cats.

These playful verses by a celebrated poet have delighted readers and cat lovers around the world since they were gathered for publication in 1939.

As Valerie Eliot has pointed out, there are a number of references to cats in T.S. Eliot’s work, but it was to his godchildren, particularly Tom Faber and Alison Tandy, that he first revealed himself as “Old Possum” and for whom he composed his poems.

This captivating edition is a curious homage to felines young and old, merry and fierce, small and unmistakably round. Also includes Edward Gorey’s charming pen and ink illustrations. Gorey gives a fresh intepretation of “Mr. Mistoffelees,” “Growltiger,” “The Rum Tum Tugger,” “Bustopher Jones,” “Skimbleshanks,” “Macavity: the Mystery Cat,” and a variety of other memorable feline strays all of whom have been brought to life on the stage in the hit musical Cats.

Find books similar to…

FAQ
What is “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” about?
This page includes the available description and bibliographic details for “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” by Thomas Stearns Eliot. Synopsis preview: The inspiration for the iconic musical Cats, T. S. Eliot’s classic and delightful collection of poetry about cats. These playful verses by a celebrated poet have delighted readers and cat lovers around the world since th…
Who is the author of “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats”?
“Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” is credited to Thomas Stearns Eliot.
When was “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” published?
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Year: 1967.
What is the ISBN for “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats”?
ISBN-13: 9780156685702.
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
Language: en. Pages: 46. Edition: Revised Edition.

More Books by Thomas Stearns Eliot

Related Books by Topic