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Minka and Curdy: The enchanting story of a writer and her cats
One of the most enchanting books about cats ever written, Minka and Curdy describes the adventures - and misadventures - of two very different kittens.
Victoria, a real tyrant of a cat, spent so many years training her owner to be the ideal hostess that Mrs Bell feels it would be disrespectful to replace that formidable creature. But her resolve is worn down, and she finally agrees to take a marmalade kitten - and is immediately offered a Siamese that she also simply cannot resist. This is the story of a writer seduced by the contrasting charms of two Curdy, lively and mischievous; and Minka, elegant, imperious, and disdainful of the ginger upstart.
Delightfully illustrated with line drawings, this is a witty and charming love letter to feline companionship from the author of Frost in May , and the perfect book for all cat lovers.
Victoria, a real tyrant of a cat, spent so many years training her owner to be the ideal hostess that Mrs Bell feels it would be disrespectful to replace that formidable creature. But her resolve is worn down, and she finally agrees to take a marmalade kitten - and is immediately offered a Siamese that she also simply cannot resist. This is the story of a writer seduced by the contrasting charms of two Curdy, lively and mischievous; and Minka, elegant, imperious, and disdainful of the ginger upstart.
Delightfully illustrated with line drawings, this is a witty and charming love letter to feline companionship from the author of Frost in May , and the perfect book for all cat lovers.
128 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1992
11 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
About the author
Antonia White
41 books46 followersAntonia White was born as Eirine Botting to parents Cecil and Christine Botting in 1899. She later took her mother's maiden name, White.
In 1921 she was married to the first of her three husbands. The marriage was annulled only 2 years later, and reportedly was never consummated. She immediately fell in love again with a man named Robert, who was an officer in the Scots Guards. They never married, and their relationship was brief but intense, which led to her experiencing a severe mental breakdown. She was committed to Bethlem, a public asylum, where she spent the next year of her life. She described her breakdown as a period of “mania”. After she left hospital, she spent four years participating in Freudian studies. She struggled the rest of her life with mental illness which she referred to as “The Beast”.
Her second marriage was to a man named Eric Earnshaw Smith, but this marriage ended in divorce. By the age of 30, she had been married 3 times. During her second marriage, she had fallen in love with two men. One was Rudolph 'Silas' Glossop. The other was a man named Tom Hopkinson, a copywriter and S.G. who is described as “a tall handsome young man with a slightly melancholy charm”. She had trouble deciding whom she should marry following her divorce, and she married Hopkinson in 1930. She had two daughters, Lyndall Hopkinson and Susan Chitty, who have both written autobiographical books about their difficult relationship with their mother.
Her career as a writer seems to have been driven by the desire to cope with a sense of failure, resulting initially from her first attempt at writing, and with mental illness. She was quoted as saying, “The old terrors always return and often, with them, a feeling of such paralyzing lack of self-confidence that I have to take earlier books of mine off their shelf just to prove to myself that I actually wrote them and they were actually printed, bound, and read. I find that numbers of writers experience these same miseries over their work and do not, as is so often supposed, enjoy the process. "Creative joy" is something I haven't felt since I was fourteen and don't expect to feel again."
With regard to the content of her writing, White remarked, “My novels and short stories are mainly about ordinary people who become involved in rather extraordinary situations. I do not mean in sensational adventures but in rather odd and difficult personal relationships largely due to their family background and their incomplete understanding of their own natures. I use both Catholic and non-Catholic characters and am particularly interested in the conflicts that arise between them and in the influences they have on each other.”
Bibliography:
Frost in May (first published 1933)
The Lost Traveller (first published 1950)
The Sugar House (first published 1952)
Beyond the Glass (first published 1954)
Strangers (first published 1954)
The Hound and the Falcon: The Story of a Reconversion to Catholic Faith (first published 1965)
Minka and Curdy (children's book, first published 1957)
Living with Minka and Curdy (children's book, first published 1970)
Play: Three In a Room: Comedy in 3 Acts (first published 1947)
In 1921 she was married to the first of her three husbands. The marriage was annulled only 2 years later, and reportedly was never consummated. She immediately fell in love again with a man named Robert, who was an officer in the Scots Guards. They never married, and their relationship was brief but intense, which led to her experiencing a severe mental breakdown. She was committed to Bethlem, a public asylum, where she spent the next year of her life. She described her breakdown as a period of “mania”. After she left hospital, she spent four years participating in Freudian studies. She struggled the rest of her life with mental illness which she referred to as “The Beast”.
Her second marriage was to a man named Eric Earnshaw Smith, but this marriage ended in divorce. By the age of 30, she had been married 3 times. During her second marriage, she had fallen in love with two men. One was Rudolph 'Silas' Glossop. The other was a man named Tom Hopkinson, a copywriter and S.G. who is described as “a tall handsome young man with a slightly melancholy charm”. She had trouble deciding whom she should marry following her divorce, and she married Hopkinson in 1930. She had two daughters, Lyndall Hopkinson and Susan Chitty, who have both written autobiographical books about their difficult relationship with their mother.
Her career as a writer seems to have been driven by the desire to cope with a sense of failure, resulting initially from her first attempt at writing, and with mental illness. She was quoted as saying, “The old terrors always return and often, with them, a feeling of such paralyzing lack of self-confidence that I have to take earlier books of mine off their shelf just to prove to myself that I actually wrote them and they were actually printed, bound, and read. I find that numbers of writers experience these same miseries over their work and do not, as is so often supposed, enjoy the process. "Creative joy" is something I haven't felt since I was fourteen and don't expect to feel again."
With regard to the content of her writing, White remarked, “My novels and short stories are mainly about ordinary people who become involved in rather extraordinary situations. I do not mean in sensational adventures but in rather odd and difficult personal relationships largely due to their family background and their incomplete understanding of their own natures. I use both Catholic and non-Catholic characters and am particularly interested in the conflicts that arise between them and in the influences they have on each other.”
Bibliography:
Frost in May (first published 1933)
The Lost Traveller (first published 1950)
The Sugar House (first published 1952)
Beyond the Glass (first published 1954)
Strangers (first published 1954)
The Hound and the Falcon: The Story of a Reconversion to Catholic Faith (first published 1965)
Minka and Curdy (children's book, first published 1957)
Living with Minka and Curdy (children's book, first published 1970)
Play: Three In a Room: Comedy in 3 Acts (first published 1947)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 10, 2024
sooooo adorable oh my god!! gevonden in Londen, blijkt dat het een boekje van 1957 is! je merkt echt dat de schrijfster enorm veel van katten houdt. ze schrijft over hun unieke persoonlijkheden op een enorm mooie manier. ik kreeg tranen in mijn ogen op het einde omdat het gewoon zo vertederend is. een perfect boekje om 's avonds in de zetel te lezen terwijl de kaarsjes branden en de geur van koffie in het huis hangt <3
December 10, 2025
What a delightful book! I loved this and whizzed through its 120 pages. Purrfect for cat lovers and story lovers too. First published in 1957 it’s a book that is truly timeless. The Author obviously is a cat fan by the brilliant descriptions of cat mannerisms and distinct feline behaviours. Absolutely nailed the realism. Antonia has written a timeless book that a range of ages will enjoy. Born in 1899 and this being her pen name I have discovered this Author penned a lot of books, I’d never heard of any before this one.
Our cat owner Mrs. Bell is a writer and sadly loses her haughty cat Victoria to old age early in the book. She has always desired to own a Siamese but cannot afford one and feels guilty that pedigree cats are popular but other kittens need good homes too. She unsuccessfully tried to wait a long time before deciding to get another kitten. Wanting to honour Victoria’s memory. But cat people can’t resist getting more!
By sheer luck a character filled Siamese kitten is offered to her, for free as it’s not got the quality to be show cat due to very cute slightly cross eyes and a kink in the tail, both features that do come with the breed. She names her Minka. Then comes along a marmalade kitten into her heart and life called Curdy, a male funny and bold kitten.
The book is a fun tale of Minka and Curdy and their interactions as two kittens along with all the neighbouring cats that have their own personalities. Minka is suitably miffed that her Mistress (cat slave human) dared to bring another kitten into HER house! The fur begins to fly. It’s a very easy read with fantastic true to fact descriptors of how cats behave right down to each distinct meow, hiss and purr.
You can really be part of the story, seeing the cats antics and mishaps easily. It’s a really enjoyable book. I can’t give too much more away. I fell in love with all the cats in the book and the mix of characters too. Very heartwarming and a great read if you want something short and light. Definitely ideal for cat lovers everywhere. Suitable for many aged from young readers to adults and also fine to be read out loud to younger children. It features some lovely line drawings also. We get to see Minka and Curdy. Two totally different yet adorable cats.
Antonia obviously knows her cat stuff as the descriptions of even specific breed traits (like how chatty Siamese are) are spot in. As a huge cat lover I adored this lovely book and highly recommend it. Five stars. Really will appeal to many ages. It would be a lovely gift book for any cat or animal lover. Very easy to read and as one of my cats lay with me as a read it I was left feeling all warm and fuzzy and happy to be a cat lover. The book was also republished in the 90’s.
Huge head butts, twitchy tails and purrs from my Riley and Toddy too. As a writer with two cats I related enormously. Especially cats who think they can type better than you!
Many thanks to Little, Brown Book Group UK (Virago) for my ARC via NetGalley.
Thanks so much for reading my review of this book. Join me as a friend or follower and feel free to browse my shelves for your next great book! I love to connect with other readers.
Our cat owner Mrs. Bell is a writer and sadly loses her haughty cat Victoria to old age early in the book. She has always desired to own a Siamese but cannot afford one and feels guilty that pedigree cats are popular but other kittens need good homes too. She unsuccessfully tried to wait a long time before deciding to get another kitten. Wanting to honour Victoria’s memory. But cat people can’t resist getting more!
By sheer luck a character filled Siamese kitten is offered to her, for free as it’s not got the quality to be show cat due to very cute slightly cross eyes and a kink in the tail, both features that do come with the breed. She names her Minka. Then comes along a marmalade kitten into her heart and life called Curdy, a male funny and bold kitten.
The book is a fun tale of Minka and Curdy and their interactions as two kittens along with all the neighbouring cats that have their own personalities. Minka is suitably miffed that her Mistress (cat slave human) dared to bring another kitten into HER house! The fur begins to fly. It’s a very easy read with fantastic true to fact descriptors of how cats behave right down to each distinct meow, hiss and purr.
You can really be part of the story, seeing the cats antics and mishaps easily. It’s a really enjoyable book. I can’t give too much more away. I fell in love with all the cats in the book and the mix of characters too. Very heartwarming and a great read if you want something short and light. Definitely ideal for cat lovers everywhere. Suitable for many aged from young readers to adults and also fine to be read out loud to younger children. It features some lovely line drawings also. We get to see Minka and Curdy. Two totally different yet adorable cats.
Antonia obviously knows her cat stuff as the descriptions of even specific breed traits (like how chatty Siamese are) are spot in. As a huge cat lover I adored this lovely book and highly recommend it. Five stars. Really will appeal to many ages. It would be a lovely gift book for any cat or animal lover. Very easy to read and as one of my cats lay with me as a read it I was left feeling all warm and fuzzy and happy to be a cat lover. The book was also republished in the 90’s.
Huge head butts, twitchy tails and purrs from my Riley and Toddy too. As a writer with two cats I related enormously. Especially cats who think they can type better than you!
Many thanks to Little, Brown Book Group UK (Virago) for my ARC via NetGalley.
Thanks so much for reading my review of this book. Join me as a friend or follower and feel free to browse my shelves for your next great book! I love to connect with other readers.
September 17, 2024
i LOVE cats– and now i’m missing mine most fervently
April 1, 2025
Bought in London as a souvenir.
Obsessed with the illustrations. Reminded me of when I was seven and spent a year falling asleep to my Aristocats vhs.
Obsessed with the illustrations. Reminded me of when I was seven and spent a year falling asleep to my Aristocats vhs.
April 4, 2024
My first 'new-to-me' 5 star read of the year. This book is just so charming, such a delight, gorgeous prose, heartwarming and endearing story, I adore it!
November 30, 2017
An old favourite of mine, picked up once again to coincide with the arrival of our very own shiny and new 9 week old ‘marmalade’. Minka & Curdy tells the tale of a Mrs Bell who, after her previous cat died, ends up with 2 kittens, and has her work cut out trying to get them to make friends.
Although this book was first published in 1957 and some of the dialogue is old fashioned, the funny ways of cats haven’t changed a bit. As we attempt to introduce our kitten to existing cats in our household I found myself grinning while reading parts of the book and thinking ‘yes, yes! It’s exactly like that’.
I finished the last two chapters with a smile on my face. If you’re cat mad give this short book a try (if you can track it down) as you can’t fail to love it. If you don’t like cats then avoid it like the plague!
Although this book was first published in 1957 and some of the dialogue is old fashioned, the funny ways of cats haven’t changed a bit. As we attempt to introduce our kitten to existing cats in our household I found myself grinning while reading parts of the book and thinking ‘yes, yes! It’s exactly like that’.
I finished the last two chapters with a smile on my face. If you’re cat mad give this short book a try (if you can track it down) as you can’t fail to love it. If you don’t like cats then avoid it like the plague!
October 12, 2023
My thanks to Little, Brown Group U.K. Virago for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Minka and Curdy’ by Antonia White. It was originally published in 1957 and is part of Virago’s Modern Classics Collection. It is illustrated by Janet and Anne Johnstone. On publication I purchased a hardback edition.
Mrs Bell was very sad when her cat Victoria died. The black and white feline had spent many years training Mrs. Bell to meet her exacting standards. At first, Mrs Bell felt that it would be disrespectful to bring another cat into her life though she finds that she is lonely and that her flat now feels empty.
Her resolve soon melts and hearing that a friend’s cat is about to have a litter, she agrees to adopt one when they are old enough. She is then immediately offered Minka, a four month old Siamese kitten, that urgently needs rehoming. She had always wanted a Siamese, so she simply cannot resist. Frankly who could?
Minka quickly settles in, enjoying all the attention lavished on her. Then the day arrives when Curdy, a lively and mischievous marmalade kitten, joins the household. Minka is not pleased: “there was Minka crouching on the carpet with her ears back and the most strange and sinister sounds coming out of her throat. Curdy, for all his bravery, was obviously frightened.”
The rest of the book follows Mrs Bell and her lodger, Alice, as they work together to establish harmony between the kittens.
The illustrations are adorable and together with White’s text conveys behaviours that are familiar to cat guardians, especially the dynamics of multi cat households. Given that ‘Minka and Curdy’ is 66 years old, it’s clear that cats will be cats no matter the year. It’s why this is considered a modern classic of cat-themed literature.
Currently I have two boy cats who admittedly took a while to get used to sharing the house and me though now are friends and ensure that I am being trained to meet their standards.
Overall, ‘Minka and Curdy’ proved a charming gem of a book that is bound to appeal to all cat lovers.
Mrs Bell was very sad when her cat Victoria died. The black and white feline had spent many years training Mrs. Bell to meet her exacting standards. At first, Mrs Bell felt that it would be disrespectful to bring another cat into her life though she finds that she is lonely and that her flat now feels empty.
Her resolve soon melts and hearing that a friend’s cat is about to have a litter, she agrees to adopt one when they are old enough. She is then immediately offered Minka, a four month old Siamese kitten, that urgently needs rehoming. She had always wanted a Siamese, so she simply cannot resist. Frankly who could?
Minka quickly settles in, enjoying all the attention lavished on her. Then the day arrives when Curdy, a lively and mischievous marmalade kitten, joins the household. Minka is not pleased: “there was Minka crouching on the carpet with her ears back and the most strange and sinister sounds coming out of her throat. Curdy, for all his bravery, was obviously frightened.”
The rest of the book follows Mrs Bell and her lodger, Alice, as they work together to establish harmony between the kittens.
The illustrations are adorable and together with White’s text conveys behaviours that are familiar to cat guardians, especially the dynamics of multi cat households. Given that ‘Minka and Curdy’ is 66 years old, it’s clear that cats will be cats no matter the year. It’s why this is considered a modern classic of cat-themed literature.
Currently I have two boy cats who admittedly took a while to get used to sharing the house and me though now are friends and ensure that I am being trained to meet their standards.
Overall, ‘Minka and Curdy’ proved a charming gem of a book that is bound to appeal to all cat lovers.
February 11, 2024
Originally published in 1957, this is a timeless tale of love and devotion between a woman and her feline companions.
Mrs Bell is a writer who has recently suffered the loss of her well-to-do cat, Victoria, due to old age. Victoria, appropriately named after the stern and dignified monarch she resembled, taught Mrs Bell the ways in which to be the perfect cat hostess through her extremely high standards. Despite doing what she can for the stray and needy cats, Mrs Bell has always harboured an intense desire to own a Siamese cat, admiring their beauty and bewitching personality. Originally determined to never adopt another cat, Mrs Bell is convinced to accept the possibility of a marmalade kitten, only to then be immediately offered a Siamese cat - a temptation that may be too high to refuse. How will Mrs Bell cope with these frisky cats suddenly taking over her life?
Delightfully charming in every way, Antonia White managed to encapsulate the relatable anecdotes that will be all too familiar to cat owners and cat lovers everywhere. In a humorous yet realistic portrayal, the author dutifully describes cat behaviour to perfection, documenting the dynamic between fellow felines and humans in a brilliantly heartwarming flair that sets this book as one for all ages.
This recently re-published edition is a wonderful keepsake with the illustrations by Janet and Anne Johnstone adding to the joy and light-hearted hilarity of the tale, truly capturing the cheeky personalities of the cats that made this little book an absolute pleasure to read and a classic to defy time itself.
Mrs Bell is a writer who has recently suffered the loss of her well-to-do cat, Victoria, due to old age. Victoria, appropriately named after the stern and dignified monarch she resembled, taught Mrs Bell the ways in which to be the perfect cat hostess through her extremely high standards. Despite doing what she can for the stray and needy cats, Mrs Bell has always harboured an intense desire to own a Siamese cat, admiring their beauty and bewitching personality. Originally determined to never adopt another cat, Mrs Bell is convinced to accept the possibility of a marmalade kitten, only to then be immediately offered a Siamese cat - a temptation that may be too high to refuse. How will Mrs Bell cope with these frisky cats suddenly taking over her life?
Delightfully charming in every way, Antonia White managed to encapsulate the relatable anecdotes that will be all too familiar to cat owners and cat lovers everywhere. In a humorous yet realistic portrayal, the author dutifully describes cat behaviour to perfection, documenting the dynamic between fellow felines and humans in a brilliantly heartwarming flair that sets this book as one for all ages.
This recently re-published edition is a wonderful keepsake with the illustrations by Janet and Anne Johnstone adding to the joy and light-hearted hilarity of the tale, truly capturing the cheeky personalities of the cats that made this little book an absolute pleasure to read and a classic to defy time itself.
March 31, 2024
Found this completely unexpected in one of my favourite bookstores in Amsterdam. I read most of it already back in January while going home on the train, but only finished it today. It is an adorable story about a woman who loves cats very much, something the writer clearly does as well. Both cats have such distinct personalities with seemingly human traits, yet they still feel perfectly cat-like. It’s a perfect read if you love cats, and want a short book with low stakes and a great cozy vibe. The book left me with a warm and happy feeling :)
This book is part of the virago modern classics series, which shines a light on ‘forgotten’ classic literature written by women. Definitely want to pick up more from this series!
This book is part of the virago modern classics series, which shines a light on ‘forgotten’ classic literature written by women. Definitely want to pick up more from this series!
April 12, 2023
Mrs Bell is sad when her cat Victoria dies,although Victoria was not particularly affectionate towards her (“Victoria did not believe in spoiling humans”). She eventually decides to get a kitten, and having already decided on a ginger one she is unexpectedly offered a Siamese. So she ends up with two kittens which causes problems as the Siamese, Minka, is not keen on sharing her. Quite a sweet little story with charming illustrations by Janet and Anne Graham Johnstone.
October 18, 2023
I loved this story since the beginning: loved the drawings, the realistic and likeable cats, the well written story.
It's a story of cats being cats, each of them with different characteristics and loving them as I could find some traits of my cats in them.
Loved it, highly recommended
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It's a story of cats being cats, each of them with different characteristics and loving them as I could find some traits of my cats in them.
Loved it, highly recommended
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
March 5, 2024
Minka and curdy by Antonia white was a lovely book to read and it was good too.I loved the illustrations of the cats they were really well done and they had lots of details put into them. I loved all the cats in this book from Victoria the royal regal sensitive Persian to Minka the adorable playful naughty Siamese and finally curdy the cheeky brave marmalade cat all of these cats had lots of clever well thought characteristics about them. The writing style of this book was good Antonia chose well what words and vocabulary she used. My favourite bit in Minka and curdy was the ending when they were they snuggled together in Mrs bells bed who is the owner of the two cats, I just thought that was a happy ending and they got on in the end. Finally, for my first time reading an Antonia white book I thought it was really good i would definitely read one of her books again in the future.
January 19, 2024
> “Though he had been so astonishingly brave, he was obviously relieved not to have to be anymore.”
Minka and Curdy was a wonderful read that followed a slow process of mourning, accepting a new feline into the home after the loss of one so dear to you as well as the adventures (or more accurately misadventures) of the two kittens Minka and Curdy once they enter the apartment of Mrs Bell.
Mrs Bell is a woman who had a cat she adored once before, Victoria although not an actual present character in the book is only spoken of in retrospect but her humans affection for her is more than apparent as you’re felt the longing, residual love for a lost pet and experiencing the mourning of a loved one from the household. It explores the theme of moving on from loss and working towards opening up to the potential of a new pet, working for looking at expanding a home that felt so sacred to another creature and whether there’s ever a correct time. A time when their traits may be forgotten but the book so wonderfully characterises each cat as their own personal creature with charming quirks and quips that make them unique that there’s no way you could ever mistake Victoria for a new kitten - and there’s no way Mrs Bell could either.
It is a nice short read only taking me three hours to complete at a leisurely pace however it was one that once I opened it I struggled to put down. There was something consistently charming occurring on each page and the change of pace from reading high action, high drama, fast paced fantasy novels and going to look at the slowly developing relationship of two kittens and their new owner was something that was incredibly refreshing.
Minka and Curdy was a wonderful read that followed a slow process of mourning, accepting a new feline into the home after the loss of one so dear to you as well as the adventures (or more accurately misadventures) of the two kittens Minka and Curdy once they enter the apartment of Mrs Bell.
Mrs Bell is a woman who had a cat she adored once before, Victoria although not an actual present character in the book is only spoken of in retrospect but her humans affection for her is more than apparent as you’re felt the longing, residual love for a lost pet and experiencing the mourning of a loved one from the household. It explores the theme of moving on from loss and working towards opening up to the potential of a new pet, working for looking at expanding a home that felt so sacred to another creature and whether there’s ever a correct time. A time when their traits may be forgotten but the book so wonderfully characterises each cat as their own personal creature with charming quirks and quips that make them unique that there’s no way you could ever mistake Victoria for a new kitten - and there’s no way Mrs Bell could either.
It is a nice short read only taking me three hours to complete at a leisurely pace however it was one that once I opened it I struggled to put down. There was something consistently charming occurring on each page and the change of pace from reading high action, high drama, fast paced fantasy novels and going to look at the slowly developing relationship of two kittens and their new owner was something that was incredibly refreshing.
February 25, 2024
A very cute short story about a woman and her cats! Totally heartwearming!
Read
September 21, 2012An adorable, uplifting tale of two Kitties which will speak to any cat lover.
March 2, 2024
A book basically written about merle and gene
September 11, 2023
What a delightful book! I loved this and whizzed through its 120 pages. Purrfect for cat lovers and story lovers too. First published in 1957 it’s a book that is truly timeless. The Author obviously is a cat fan by the brilliant descriptions of cat mannerisms and distinct feline behaviours. Absolutely nailed the realism. Antonia has written a timeless book that a range of ages will enjoy.
Our cat owner, Mrs. Bell is a writer and sadly loses her haughty cat Victoria to old age early in the book. She has always desired to own a Siamese but cannot afford one and feels guilty that pedigree cats are popular but other kittens need good homes too. She unsuccessfully tried to wait a long time before deciding to get another kitten.
By sheer luck a character filled Siamese kitten is offered to her, for free as it’s not got the quality to be show cat due to very cute slightly cross eyes and a kink in the tail, both features that do come with the breed. She names her Minka. Then comes along a marmalade kitten into her heart and life called Curdy, a male funny and bold kitten.
The book is a fun tale of Minka and Curdy and their interactions as two kittens along with all the neighbouring cats that have their own personalities. Minka is suitably miffed that her Mistress (cat slave human) dared to bring another kitten into HER house! The fur begins to fly. It’s a very easy read with fantastic true to fact descriptors of how cats behave right down to each distinct meow, hiss and purr.
You can really be part of the story, seeing the cats antics and mishaps easily. It’s a really enjoyable book. I can’t give too much more away. I fell in love with all the cats in the book and the mix of characters too. Very heartwarming and a great read if you want something short and light. Definitely ideal for cat lovers everywhere. Suitable for many aged from young readers to adults and also fine to be read out loud to younger children. It features some lovely line drawings also. We get to see Minka and Curdy. Two totally different yet adorable cats.
Antonia obviously knows her cat stuff as the descriptions of even specific breed traits (like how chatty Siamese are) are spot in. As a huge cat lover I adored this lovely book and highly recommend it. Five stars. Really will appeal to many ages. It would be a lovely gift book for any cat or animal lover. Very easy to read and as one of my cats lay with me as a read it I was left feeling all warm and fuzzy and happy to be a cat lover. The book was also republished in the 90’s.
Huge head butts, twitchy tails and purrs from my Riley and Toddy too.
Now being pit out there again on 5th October 2023. Many thanks to Little, Brown Book Group UK (Virago) for my ARC via NetGalley.
Thanks so much for reading my review of this book. Join me as a friend or follower and feel free to browse my shelves for your next great book! I love to connect with other readers.
Our cat owner, Mrs. Bell is a writer and sadly loses her haughty cat Victoria to old age early in the book. She has always desired to own a Siamese but cannot afford one and feels guilty that pedigree cats are popular but other kittens need good homes too. She unsuccessfully tried to wait a long time before deciding to get another kitten.
By sheer luck a character filled Siamese kitten is offered to her, for free as it’s not got the quality to be show cat due to very cute slightly cross eyes and a kink in the tail, both features that do come with the breed. She names her Minka. Then comes along a marmalade kitten into her heart and life called Curdy, a male funny and bold kitten.
The book is a fun tale of Minka and Curdy and their interactions as two kittens along with all the neighbouring cats that have their own personalities. Minka is suitably miffed that her Mistress (cat slave human) dared to bring another kitten into HER house! The fur begins to fly. It’s a very easy read with fantastic true to fact descriptors of how cats behave right down to each distinct meow, hiss and purr.
You can really be part of the story, seeing the cats antics and mishaps easily. It’s a really enjoyable book. I can’t give too much more away. I fell in love with all the cats in the book and the mix of characters too. Very heartwarming and a great read if you want something short and light. Definitely ideal for cat lovers everywhere. Suitable for many aged from young readers to adults and also fine to be read out loud to younger children. It features some lovely line drawings also. We get to see Minka and Curdy. Two totally different yet adorable cats.
Antonia obviously knows her cat stuff as the descriptions of even specific breed traits (like how chatty Siamese are) are spot in. As a huge cat lover I adored this lovely book and highly recommend it. Five stars. Really will appeal to many ages. It would be a lovely gift book for any cat or animal lover. Very easy to read and as one of my cats lay with me as a read it I was left feeling all warm and fuzzy and happy to be a cat lover. The book was also republished in the 90’s.
Huge head butts, twitchy tails and purrs from my Riley and Toddy too.
Now being pit out there again on 5th October 2023. Many thanks to Little, Brown Book Group UK (Virago) for my ARC via NetGalley.
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August 24, 2023
Trained to the highest standards of cat-hosting by the imperious (and very jealous!) Victoria, Mrs Bell feels that she cannot ever have another cat.
After all, when Victoria ruled the roost, she even checked Mrs Bell's shopping bags to ensure that Another Cat had not been sneaked into the house...
But her friends soon talk her into thinking otherwise, and eventually Mrs Bell agrees to take on a marmalade kitten - provided that one appears in the next litter belonging to the friend of a friend.
In the meantime though, completely out of the blue, Mrs Bell is offered her dream kitten, a kinky-tailed Siamese with a squint. Unable to resist, she takes Minka home. Only to find out that her kitten hates all other cats!
Now, what is Mrs Bell to do about the imminent arrival of the mischievous marmalade kitten, Curdy?
This is a delightful story for all cat-lovers. Especially since it was even enjoyed by this dog person! The illustrations are super cute, too - this is one not to be missed.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
After all, when Victoria ruled the roost, she even checked Mrs Bell's shopping bags to ensure that Another Cat had not been sneaked into the house...
But her friends soon talk her into thinking otherwise, and eventually Mrs Bell agrees to take on a marmalade kitten - provided that one appears in the next litter belonging to the friend of a friend.
In the meantime though, completely out of the blue, Mrs Bell is offered her dream kitten, a kinky-tailed Siamese with a squint. Unable to resist, she takes Minka home. Only to find out that her kitten hates all other cats!
Now, what is Mrs Bell to do about the imminent arrival of the mischievous marmalade kitten, Curdy?
This is a delightful story for all cat-lovers. Especially since it was even enjoyed by this dog person! The illustrations are super cute, too - this is one not to be missed.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
October 9, 2023
Antonia White was devoted to her cats throughout her life. They were her constant companions as she wrote the famous Frost In May Quartet.
In Minka and Curdy, she fictionalised their lives in a brilliant story of the misadventures of two feline friends.
Originally published in 1957
What an absolute delight this little book is. Beautifully produced by Virago Modern Classics, in hardback and fabulous line drawings throughout the text.
Anyone who has ever owned a cat will nod in agreement as Mrs Bell talks about her late cat Victoria. There were lines about how Victoria owned Mrs Bell, and demanded certain things that certainly rang true for me, and raised many a chuckle and laugh as I read.
Victoria is now gone and initially Mrs Bell didn't want another cat. She wanted to pay homage to how special Victoria was. However, her friend persuades her that getting another cat would be the greatest tribute to Victoria, and Mrs Bell agrees.
She'd really love a Siamese, especially after meeting one in her local bookshop. She's also fond of a marmalade cat.
Mrs Bell ends up with one of each; the Minka and Curdy of the title. Minka, the Siamese arrived first and when Curdy is introduced to the household, there's a war. Minka is not going to allow any other cat in her house!
Antonia White's language is probably a little outdated, but it is still exquisite and her understanding of cats and their habits is wonderfully portrayed in this story. It is just a short novel, at 113 pages, and I read it in one sitting, fairly quickly, but totally entranced throughout.
This would make the perfect gift for any cat lover. A beautiful book, one to treasure.
In Minka and Curdy, she fictionalised their lives in a brilliant story of the misadventures of two feline friends.
Originally published in 1957
What an absolute delight this little book is. Beautifully produced by Virago Modern Classics, in hardback and fabulous line drawings throughout the text.
Anyone who has ever owned a cat will nod in agreement as Mrs Bell talks about her late cat Victoria. There were lines about how Victoria owned Mrs Bell, and demanded certain things that certainly rang true for me, and raised many a chuckle and laugh as I read.
Victoria is now gone and initially Mrs Bell didn't want another cat. She wanted to pay homage to how special Victoria was. However, her friend persuades her that getting another cat would be the greatest tribute to Victoria, and Mrs Bell agrees.
She'd really love a Siamese, especially after meeting one in her local bookshop. She's also fond of a marmalade cat.
Mrs Bell ends up with one of each; the Minka and Curdy of the title. Minka, the Siamese arrived first and when Curdy is introduced to the household, there's a war. Minka is not going to allow any other cat in her house!
Antonia White's language is probably a little outdated, but it is still exquisite and her understanding of cats and their habits is wonderfully portrayed in this story. It is just a short novel, at 113 pages, and I read it in one sitting, fairly quickly, but totally entranced throughout.
This would make the perfect gift for any cat lover. A beautiful book, one to treasure.
October 22, 2023
Delightful! As a cat lover I knew I would enjoy this but I actually loved it. Big thanks to my friend who gifted it to me. First published in 1957 it stands the test of time. At just 120 pages it’s a quick read and although a wonderful read for any cat lover it’s also a lovely piece of easy read literary fiction for anyone of any age.
Briefly, after her cat Victoria died Mrs Bell knows that she will have another cat but she will wait. But when she is offered a Siamese for free she can’t resist and Minka comes into her life. However, she had previously been told by her friend Mrs Grey that if a female cat belonging to a lady in Rye has a ginger kitten it is hers. And so Coeur-de-Lion (Curdy for short) joins the family, much to the disgruntlement of Minka. Can Curdy break through Minka’s regal distain?
The author clearly loves her cats. Her descriptions of their behaviours and interactions is spot on. As well as the lovely story this edition has some wonderful cute illustrations. This is a book I will treasure. All the way through I could feel a smile on my face I was enjoying it so much. Fabulous.
Briefly, after her cat Victoria died Mrs Bell knows that she will have another cat but she will wait. But when she is offered a Siamese for free she can’t resist and Minka comes into her life. However, she had previously been told by her friend Mrs Grey that if a female cat belonging to a lady in Rye has a ginger kitten it is hers. And so Coeur-de-Lion (Curdy for short) joins the family, much to the disgruntlement of Minka. Can Curdy break through Minka’s regal distain?
The author clearly loves her cats. Her descriptions of their behaviours and interactions is spot on. As well as the lovely story this edition has some wonderful cute illustrations. This is a book I will treasure. All the way through I could feel a smile on my face I was enjoying it so much. Fabulous.
May 30, 2024
excuse me how can u not resist picking this one up...i mean...just look @ the gORGEOUS COVER !!! 😍😍😍😍😍😍
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. i actually wasnt aware that this is one of the classics; it was originally published in 1957. its quite a straightforward short story about two cats who came into mrs bell's life after she had lost her first cat due to old age early in the book. and obvs of course, the two cats are named minka & curdy 🐈🐈⬛
both cats have such distinct personalities but mrs bell as a cat lover, still loves them both equally but we get to see how minka is not keen on sharing mrs bell with curdy wHICH IS SO ADORBZ LOL 🥹 i feel like most cat owners would be able to relate to mrs bell especially if they have went through a phase in their life where they had to grieve the loss of their cat and how to cope with it.
i wished theres more depth and connection to the story bc its one of those "nothing much so can forget easily" stories for me. but if youre looking to read for the chill cozy cat vibes, i would still recommend checking this one out! ☺️
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. i actually wasnt aware that this is one of the classics; it was originally published in 1957. its quite a straightforward short story about two cats who came into mrs bell's life after she had lost her first cat due to old age early in the book. and obvs of course, the two cats are named minka & curdy 🐈🐈⬛
both cats have such distinct personalities but mrs bell as a cat lover, still loves them both equally but we get to see how minka is not keen on sharing mrs bell with curdy wHICH IS SO ADORBZ LOL 🥹 i feel like most cat owners would be able to relate to mrs bell especially if they have went through a phase in their life where they had to grieve the loss of their cat and how to cope with it.
i wished theres more depth and connection to the story bc its one of those "nothing much so can forget easily" stories for me. but if youre looking to read for the chill cozy cat vibes, i would still recommend checking this one out! ☺️
July 16, 2024
Description:
Mrs Bell's old cat has died, and her friends are trying to persuade her to get kittens. Mrs Bell has always wanted a siamese, but her friend is kindly arranging for her to have a friend's little ginger...
Liked:
So incredibly charming - very very sweet. Mrs Bell is almost as adorable as the kittens. The sense of feminine camaraderie is very enjoyable... I don't think there's a single human man in the book.
Disliked:
I really worried for Curdy with his frequent falls!
Would recommend very, very highly. Read when you desperately need a little bit of sweetness in your life.
Mrs Bell's old cat has died, and her friends are trying to persuade her to get kittens. Mrs Bell has always wanted a siamese, but her friend is kindly arranging for her to have a friend's little ginger...
Liked:
So incredibly charming - very very sweet. Mrs Bell is almost as adorable as the kittens. The sense of feminine camaraderie is very enjoyable... I don't think there's a single human man in the book.
Disliked:
I really worried for Curdy with his frequent falls!
Would recommend very, very highly. Read when you desperately need a little bit of sweetness in your life.
October 29, 2023
Oh, this is so heartwarming and charming.
Originally published in 1957, and now republished under Virago’s Modern Classics Collection, ‘Minka and Curdy’ tells the tale of Mrs. Bell, who has recently lost her beloved cat Victoria, and how she ends up adopting two very different little kittens - Minka and Curdy.
This is filled with the mostly lovely little cat illustrations, which are just brimming with character, just like all the different cats that appear in the story.
It’s short, and I happily consumed it in two delightful sittings, swept into the sweet tale of a women who just wants to do right by her cats, and help them both settle in.
Adored it, just as any other cat lover would!
Thank you to the publisher, and to Netgalley, for the copy to review.
Originally published in 1957, and now republished under Virago’s Modern Classics Collection, ‘Minka and Curdy’ tells the tale of Mrs. Bell, who has recently lost her beloved cat Victoria, and how she ends up adopting two very different little kittens - Minka and Curdy.
This is filled with the mostly lovely little cat illustrations, which are just brimming with character, just like all the different cats that appear in the story.
It’s short, and I happily consumed it in two delightful sittings, swept into the sweet tale of a women who just wants to do right by her cats, and help them both settle in.
Adored it, just as any other cat lover would!
Thank you to the publisher, and to Netgalley, for the copy to review.
January 6, 2024
What a wholesome, warm and comforting little book! My daughter got me this as a Christmas gift and I ADORE it! The cover is beautiful, it's a hard back copy I have with a beautifully illustrated cover! I laughed at cat antics, being a cat owner myself and knowing what it's like introducing cats in the home!
March 11, 2024
A very charming and easy to get into book. Mrs. Bell is a cat lover, I could easily connect with her. I fell in love with Minka and Curdy just as Mrs. Bell did and felt her agony when questioning if she'd done the right thing when at first the kittens did not get along. It was a very sweet story, one I would recommend for any cat lover.
August 15, 2024
Definitely a story for cat lovers! The writer uses accurate, funny and cute descriptions and the pages fly by! I am not giving 5 stars, although this book made me saying “cute” every 5 sec and I laughed a lot, just because I was hoping to have a bit more story or longer book.
I need more of this! Perfect book to relax and enjoy a simple story.
I need more of this! Perfect book to relax and enjoy a simple story.
March 9, 2025
A beautiful memoir of a woman and her greatest joys. Writing and cats. Although this book is an easy and gentle read, it combines themes such as loneliness anxiety and the need for hope. Minka and Curdy provoke an enormous sense of affection in the reader as they navigate their difficult relationship and grow in the heart of their owner and eventually each other.
October 13, 2023
This book ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
I’ve seen it billed as a children’s book, but I don’t care. I loved its simple but beautiful tale of an author who, after losing her beloved cat Victoria, decides to get another cat. Just the one cat. Or maybe two…
I’ve seen it billed as a children’s book, but I don’t care. I loved its simple but beautiful tale of an author who, after losing her beloved cat Victoria, decides to get another cat. Just the one cat. Or maybe two…
February 13, 2024
Such a lovely short story for any cat lover - a sweet, easy read with so many heartwarming and funny little moments from darlings Curdy and Minka. I could see so much of my own rescue cats through these two kittens, a wonderful new favourite and one to recommend to all ages.
March 2, 2024
This is one of those books that were popular in their day but ended up being strangely forgotten. It's a shame because it is a great little true life cat story with really adorable illustrations. Crazy cat people of all ages should love it.
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