Tuesday, January 28, 2014

The Dalai Lama's Cat and the Art of Purring; David Michie

David Michie - Hay House - 2013

As a cat lover, the title of this book,  The Dalai Lama's Cat and the Art of Purring, appealed to me the moment I read about it.  It's a sweet read that makes you think about life and about what makes you happy. Honestly, it was a great book to read in the cold, gloomy, month of January after all the holiday celebrations are now long gone.

The cat, Rinpoche or HHC (His Holiness's Cat) is a beautiful Himalayan who was rescued by the Dalai Lama when it was young.  He is very cute and very wise as well, and a keen observer of life, people and other animals.  Before the Dalai Lama leaves on a long trip to the US, he gives HHC and assignment --- to find out "What Makes You Purr".

During his holiness's absence, HHC goes about life taking in all that he sees and hears. Along the way he shares his keen observations and musings about life among the local people, monks and store owners as well. The book is full of bits of profound wisdom that makes you think and take stock of what you have read. There is plenty to reflect on and the reader will come away with many ideas, some new, some old about how each of us might find more happiness in our lives.  Although I knew very little about Buddhism, and meditation, the philosophy that was ever so subtly infused was refreshing.  Learning about new ways to find happiness and what really matters, from none other than a wise feline was certainly something worth "purring" about as well.  A delightful read.

I can't wait to go back and read the first book by this author, The Dalai Lama's Cat. The author is a Himalayan cat owner himself.

4.5/5 stars
(review copy & egalley)

12 comments:

  1. Diane, this sounds like a wonderful book filled with wise words. Lovely review, Diane! I adore Himalayan cats.

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  2. It was a great change of pace and a boost for winter doldrums:)

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  3. I adore cats and will have to get this book!

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  4. Very clever title. Glad you enjoyed the story and the inspirational reading of this book.

    :)

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  5. This sounds like a refreshing and worthwhile book, Diane.

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  6. I enjoyed reading your review. I read The Art of Happiness a long time ago, but remember the main take away - about being happy. This sounds like an interesting book.

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  7. Nice! I will have to check this author out. :)

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  8. Thank you so much, Diane, for your very generous review! The Dalai Lama's Cat has posted a link to it on her Facebook page.

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  9. great review, was indeed a great read for this winter stuff. Small correction: HHC is a female -- she, not he :)

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  10. I would have normally skipped right over this one. I tend to dislike books told from an animal's perspective, but you've made me curious about this one!

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  11. Ha, I thought it was just a cute title!

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