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Paw Tracks #2
Paw Prints at Owl Cottage
The ideal book for fans of All Creatures Great and Small, this sweet and touching tale about the power of pets will touch the hearts of all who read it
Readers who fondly recall James Herriot's All Creatures Great and Small will applaud the second coming of this beloved author in Denis O'Connor, who charmed cat lovers everywhere with Paw Prints in the Moonlight. Now, in Paw Prints at Owl Cottage, O'Connor returns with another heartwarming and timeless tale of the power of pets. When Denis and his wife Catherine return to Owl Cottage, their former home, only to find it in a dilapidated state, they decide to restore this charming house. But the memory of Denis's beloved cat, Toby Jug, still lingers on. On impulse he buys a Maine Coon Kitten, Pablo, who proves to be such a wonderful companion that he decides to buy three more and names them Carlos, Luis, and Max. Set against the wilds of the Northumbrian coast, Denis tenderly and humorously charts the ups and downs of life with his mischievous cats in this warm and touching tale.
Readers who fondly recall James Herriot's All Creatures Great and Small will applaud the second coming of this beloved author in Denis O'Connor, who charmed cat lovers everywhere with Paw Prints in the Moonlight. Now, in Paw Prints at Owl Cottage, O'Connor returns with another heartwarming and timeless tale of the power of pets. When Denis and his wife Catherine return to Owl Cottage, their former home, only to find it in a dilapidated state, they decide to restore this charming house. But the memory of Denis's beloved cat, Toby Jug, still lingers on. On impulse he buys a Maine Coon Kitten, Pablo, who proves to be such a wonderful companion that he decides to buy three more and names them Carlos, Luis, and Max. Set against the wilds of the Northumbrian coast, Denis tenderly and humorously charts the ups and downs of life with his mischievous cats in this warm and touching tale.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2010
18 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Denis O'Connor
18 books80 followersDenis O'Connor trained as a psychologist and teacher. Throughout his career he taught in schools and lectured in colleges and universities. He is retired and lives with his wife Catherine and his two Maine Coon cats in a remote country cottage in Northumberland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 24, 2017
After reading the first book in this series written by Denis O'Connor and enjoying it so much, on impulse I immediately bought all the others and I have just finished this one with no regrets whatever. I loved this one too... for different reasons. There was much to think about as I accompanied the author on his continuing journey with his beloved Maine Coon cats.
I would say that this second book again deals with the author's love of nature in general and his love of Maine Coon cats in particular and it is perhaps aimed more at cat lovers. The gentle feel of his first book describing his special bond with 'Toby Jug' his first Maine Coon cat, is not quite so evident in this second one. His personal need to learn more of the bonds he can achieve seems overall more intense.
Again I loved his stories in general about the many varied experiences he lived through with each of his four cats; all of them the same breed, but amazing in their individual different personalities. The tenderness, the beautiful descriptions of nature in Northumberland continues to be a delight to read about. I am thinking here about the crow incident.
In many ways though, this second sharing of the author's time, years later, spent again in Owl Cottage, but now with his wife... is a much more detailed recounting of the bond the author shared with his cats. I confess at times I did wonder how his wife coped with his intense preoccupation in discovering just how far this bond could be developed.
At times his determination to investigate the depths of his relationship with each of his (now four) Main Coon cats, felt to me almost scientific. However, his genuine love of each of them in all their differences is so real.
This does counteract the impression that his obsession with wanting to bond in such depth with each of his cats... has become scientific. He is totally honest in sharing his awareness of this failing later in the book. He is full of remorse when he realises this and confronts his mistakes, which caused unnecessary deep emotional pain to one of his cats in particular.
There are many moments of fascination, of joy and of delight running throughout this unique true tale. Be aware though that there is also sadness and pain too, to the extent at one point I found myself in tears.
This has not been an easy review to write and even now I am wondering if I have done justice to a book which I am sure will resonate deeply with many readers who are animal lovers. I recommend it and I am looking forward to beginning the next book of the series where Denis describes his childhood. So many books already waiting to be completed means that it will have to wait a little.
I would say that this second book again deals with the author's love of nature in general and his love of Maine Coon cats in particular and it is perhaps aimed more at cat lovers. The gentle feel of his first book describing his special bond with 'Toby Jug' his first Maine Coon cat, is not quite so evident in this second one. His personal need to learn more of the bonds he can achieve seems overall more intense.
Again I loved his stories in general about the many varied experiences he lived through with each of his four cats; all of them the same breed, but amazing in their individual different personalities. The tenderness, the beautiful descriptions of nature in Northumberland continues to be a delight to read about. I am thinking here about the crow incident.
In many ways though, this second sharing of the author's time, years later, spent again in Owl Cottage, but now with his wife... is a much more detailed recounting of the bond the author shared with his cats. I confess at times I did wonder how his wife coped with his intense preoccupation in discovering just how far this bond could be developed.
At times his determination to investigate the depths of his relationship with each of his (now four) Main Coon cats, felt to me almost scientific. However, his genuine love of each of them in all their differences is so real.
This does counteract the impression that his obsession with wanting to bond in such depth with each of his cats... has become scientific. He is totally honest in sharing his awareness of this failing later in the book. He is full of remorse when he realises this and confronts his mistakes, which caused unnecessary deep emotional pain to one of his cats in particular.
There are many moments of fascination, of joy and of delight running throughout this unique true tale. Be aware though that there is also sadness and pain too, to the extent at one point I found myself in tears.
This has not been an easy review to write and even now I am wondering if I have done justice to a book which I am sure will resonate deeply with many readers who are animal lovers. I recommend it and I am looking forward to beginning the next book of the series where Denis describes his childhood. So many books already waiting to be completed means that it will have to wait a little.
February 6, 2020
I enjoyed this tale of a man and his cats, especially the funny anecdotes, the distinct personalities of the different cats, and the peaceful descriptions of life in the country.
Some places were a bit longwinded, others a tad preachy. A few times I grew uncomfortable with the author's manipulation of the cats (like taking one of them lots of scary places so he would be forced to bond to his master), but I guess that's a normal part of training and discipline???...?
I also felt a little bad for other breeds of cats who are, apparently, nowhere near as good or smart or companionable as Maine coons. Shhh. Don't tell my cats. The ones we adopted when a stray soon-to-be-mama-kitty picked us to be her family.
Anyway, I did enjoy it for the most part. Many of the behaviors he described were exactly what my cats do, and it made me smile.
More accurate rating: 3.5
Some places were a bit longwinded, others a tad preachy. A few times I grew uncomfortable with the author's manipulation of the cats (like taking one of them lots of scary places so he would be forced to bond to his master), but I guess that's a normal part of training and discipline???...?
I also felt a little bad for other breeds of cats who are, apparently, nowhere near as good or smart or companionable as Maine coons. Shhh. Don't tell my cats. The ones we adopted when a stray soon-to-be-mama-kitty picked us to be her family.
Anyway, I did enjoy it for the most part. Many of the behaviors he described were exactly what my cats do, and it made me smile.
More accurate rating: 3.5
January 3, 2023
A precious tale of a man and his cats. :)
November 3, 2013
If you have ever shared your life with a cat, then PAW PRINTS AT OWL COTTAGE is a must read.
This is the delightful memoir of Denis O’Connor and his devotion to four wondrous Maine Coon cats who shared his life. Each cat, in its own special way, help the author recover from the loss of his beloved cat, Toby Jug.
O’Connor and his wife, Catherine, return to Owl Cottage where he had once lived with Toby Jug. While restoring the cottage, O’Connor was filled with memories of his faithful cat. At the suggestion of his wife, O’Connor decides to get another cat to help fill the void. Soon Pablo comes to live with them followed by Carlos, Luis and Max.
O’Connor tells how each kitten created their own space in his life, as well as his heart. He tells of their adventures and the impact they made in his life.
From a cat lover’s perspective, there will be tears of sorrow and joy found throughout this book. O’Connor beautifully describes how the felines became a part of his family and much more than just pets. His soulful expressions of loss, as well as the jubilation of day-to-day living will ring true for animal lovers, especially those caring for cats.
While you may need a box of tissue handy when reading this, you’ll also find yourself laughing at the cats’ antics. Set against the wilds of the Northumbrian coast, PAW PRINTS AT OWL COTTAGE is a story of warmth and love. It’s an amusing and tender look at how cats and humans connect.
FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the author’s publicist in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
This is the delightful memoir of Denis O’Connor and his devotion to four wondrous Maine Coon cats who shared his life. Each cat, in its own special way, help the author recover from the loss of his beloved cat, Toby Jug.
O’Connor and his wife, Catherine, return to Owl Cottage where he had once lived with Toby Jug. While restoring the cottage, O’Connor was filled with memories of his faithful cat. At the suggestion of his wife, O’Connor decides to get another cat to help fill the void. Soon Pablo comes to live with them followed by Carlos, Luis and Max.
O’Connor tells how each kitten created their own space in his life, as well as his heart. He tells of their adventures and the impact they made in his life.
From a cat lover’s perspective, there will be tears of sorrow and joy found throughout this book. O’Connor beautifully describes how the felines became a part of his family and much more than just pets. His soulful expressions of loss, as well as the jubilation of day-to-day living will ring true for animal lovers, especially those caring for cats.
While you may need a box of tissue handy when reading this, you’ll also find yourself laughing at the cats’ antics. Set against the wilds of the Northumbrian coast, PAW PRINTS AT OWL COTTAGE is a story of warmth and love. It’s an amusing and tender look at how cats and humans connect.
FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the author’s publicist in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
October 25, 2014
Read it because I'd just finished it's prequel, Paw Tracks in the Moonlight, and I was anxious to return to Owl Cottage, a place as dear to me now as the Burrow and Hagrid's home of Harry Potter fame. O'Connor, now married, retire, and ready to let another cat into his life, finds that his old bachelor home is once again for sale. As he seeks to repeat the happiness he had with his Maine Coon hybrid, Toby Jug, he buys one then another, then another, and yet another. They're truly fascinating animals, unique among domesticated felines, but none are quite like Toby. Though one can't manufacture providential kismet, O'Connor and his wife, Catherine, enjoy their fur babies.
December 29, 2016
At first I felt this was not as good as 'Toby Jug'. I was wrong - it is of the same quality however featuring four cats and the author and his now wife. Toby Jug was just he and the cat - a concept I probably prefer. A very relaxing read though containing some sadness and tragedy as you would expect.
November 27, 2015
A love of cat's
A wonderful tale about the love between man and cat that had me in tears.
I would recommend it to all lovers of cat's.
A wonderful tale about the love between man and cat that had me in tears.
I would recommend it to all lovers of cat's.
May 26, 2017
It's an adorable book, with every whimsical cat thought I've ever had immemorial.. but I couldn't help thinking the whole time that I never ever want to meet the author.
October 11, 2019
This is the sequel to Pawprints in the Moonlight. It is not as good as its predecessor. It follows the adoption of three cats instead of one, which dilutes the power of the story. O'Connor's depiction of Toby Jug in the first book was palpable, captivating, and emotional. In this text, the most powerful moment is the tragic death of the year old cat, a tragedy that should have never happened. As a cat lover myself, I couldn't believe he would risk their lives because he thinks cats need freedom. What? They are domesticated, not wild, and they need our protection. They count on us not to put the in harm's way. So after the sacrifice of this beautiful kitten, he realizes he can enclose a section of the yard for the others. Then, there is the separation anxiety he imposes on one of the other kittens, fearing him away from his only sibling. This is a fault of O'Connor and the breeder. She should not have allowed the separation of this bonded pair. But, O'Connor knew immediately that there was something wrong when he got that kitten home. He should have found a way to reunite them. So, this memoir was frustrating and maddening. Yes, it does still contain beautifully written descriptions and it does create a connection to the reader. But, if that reader is a cat lover, he/she should be prepared to be upset by the author's ignorance. It is worth reading, and I do recommend it.
January 31, 2019
I would have given this book more than 2 stars if it wasn't for the author and his crazy belief that a cat must be outside in order to be a happy cat. If you love your cats as this guy claims that he does why would you put them out there in harms way? And when he kills off one he just gets another. If I were his breeder he never would have gotten another Maine Coon from me! Cats can and are kept indoors for their entire lives and they are quite happy about it. My last cat lived to be 18 years of age and was a rescued cat but after he was about 3 he never stepped a foot outdoors except in a carrier where he was safe. He had a cardiologist his last 5 years but the heart finally just quit. He purred and had a relationship with us but I never would take a chance on something happening to him outdoors as Denis did with all of his cats thus shortening their lives..................
May 16, 2017
After having really loved reading Paw Tracks in the Moonlight, I was truly looking forward to reading the sequal. Denis is now married and retired. He and his wife Catherine are looking for a home in the country when they discover that Owl Cottage when Denis once lived is up for sale. They purchase the property and set about restoring it to be a real home. They discover that part of creating a home is having a cat for them.
I love reading about the cats but having fallen for the magic of Toby Jug, I did not find myself connecting as I did when I read the first book. Still a great read for cat lovers.
I love reading about the cats but having fallen for the magic of Toby Jug, I did not find myself connecting as I did when I read the first book. Still a great read for cat lovers.
January 7, 2023
While like the first book, still a cute story, but personally I don’t believe that domesticated cats should have free run in the outside world the way the author does. Most pet cats do not have the survival skills necessary, they can and do have an effect on other wildlife in their area, and such freedom will often if not always ensure a shorter life span for the cat. I accept the author’s sadness over the deaths of his cats but feel he does not himself accept his responsibility in those deaths. So, to be honest I found reading this book much harder because things did not need to go the way they did.
July 5, 2019
Questo secondo capitolo di Owl Cottage mi è piaciuto più del primo, l'ho trovato più completo e approfondito perchè qui parla di tutti i 4 maine coon che ha avuto da Toby Jug a dopo di lui, ha aspettato più di 20 anni per prendere un altro gatto, cosa che mi ha molto commossa, io non so se ce la farei a stare senza un gatto così tanto, qualche mese o un anno, di più non ce la farei.
Mi dispiace molto per Carlos, morto così piccolo a solo un anno e sei giorni...e poi Pablo, almeno adesso ci sono ancora Luis e Max e speriamo vivano insieme felici per molto tempo.
Mi dispiace molto per Carlos, morto così piccolo a solo un anno e sei giorni...e poi Pablo, almeno adesso ci sono ancora Luis e Max e speriamo vivano insieme felici per molto tempo.
July 22, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book Paw tracks in the moonlight. I was really excited to get my teeth into this second book. I read it over two days, I was that enchanted I could barely put the book down. I laughed at the comical anecdotes and cried when Carlos died then later Pablo. As a cat and nature lover these books were right up my street. I’m so glad my mum told me about them. Looking forward to starting Paw Tracks: A Childhood Memoir then read Toby Jug.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2017
This is a follow up to Paw Tracks in the Moonlight, and while an enjoyable book, it was not as endearing as the first book. The author returns to Owl Cottage later in life, married and retired. He recounts his experiences with 4 Maine Coon cats. It does contain lovely descriptions of Northumberland.
May 17, 2018
This little book was every bit as charming, heart-warming and occasionally heart-rending as its predecessor, "Pawprints in the Moonlight." Mr. O'Connor brings his daily life with his beloved cat to vivid life, sparing us not one bit of the joy or the sorrow. I will be looking into purchasing additional copies of these two books as Christmas gifts for VERY special friends!
January 24, 2023
The author tells of his experience with Maine Coon Cats. And enjoyable story if you like cats. He is a
psychologist and does try to use his experience on his cats sometimes. He has a different experience with each cat he has owned and I have found no 2 cats are exactly alike anymore than humans. It was a fun read.
psychologist and does try to use his experience on his cats sometimes. He has a different experience with each cat he has owned and I have found no 2 cats are exactly alike anymore than humans. It was a fun read.
January 20, 2018
I'm so lucky to have found these books in a used book store in Northern Ireland! The tales of Toby Jug, Pablo, Carlos & Max will forever be held close to my heart & kept safe on my bookshelf! What great lives, albeit short, these amazing animals lead!
April 10, 2020
This was recommended to me by a fellow cat lover along with Paw Tracks in the Moonlight. I love Denis’ style of writing and I feel so invested in the life of Pablo, Carlos, Luis and Max. A lovely book with lots of laughs as well as a few tears!
November 30, 2017
I really enjoyed this lovely gentle book about a couple, their four cats and the countryside. It was a pleasant antidote to my recent rather more gruesome read.
January 18, 2018
Must love cats to read this book! I enjoyed it greatly but now hope Denis never let's his pets roam again.
January 22, 2018
So I have read two books from the same author before, and this would be my least favourite but it still gets 5 stars, because Dennis O'Connor's stories are so moving for me as a cat lover.
June 25, 2018
Real great hartwarming book about a man and his MainCoon kitties.
April 9, 2020
Love this series written so lovingly by the author. I laughed, cried, and had my heart warmed reading about the life of this man's sweet cats.
April 23, 2020
Good story about a man & his love & connection with his cats.
April 27, 2020
finally finished this book inbetween moving house. the title looked good but i was bored took all my resolve to finish it wont be reading anymore of the series
August 4, 2022
True story.
December 13, 2023
Not my type of book really. Only got it because about cats
July 13, 2024
Just as cute as the first book. The ending had me sobbing again though
August 11, 2016
This book details the relationship the author has with four Maine Coon cats. In my opinion, it isn't as good as his first book, Paw Tracks in the Moonlight, which focused on the details of his relationship with his first Maine Coon cat, Toby Jug. However, this was still an enjoyable read - because it contains an additional human character (his wife) and four cats vs. one, there is just not as much development or detail on each relationship, and thus it lacks as much personality as the first memoir. All the same, it is interesting to observe how much the author enjoys his cats and the observations about their personalities and daily life that he makes. I'd recommend starting with Paw Tracks in the Moonlight and if you like it, this is probably also going to be an enjoyable read for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews