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Cat Got Your Tongue?: Curious Feline Phrases from Around the World
A vibrantly illustrated collection of cat-related proverbs and idioms collected from around the world—by the New York Times bestselling author of Tiny But Mighty, beloved by millions online as the Kitten Lady.
There's more than one way to get the job done, or as they say in Finland, "There are many ways, said Grandma, while wiping the table with a cat..."
In this charming, gift-worthy collection, renowned kitten rescuer, humane educator, and author Hannah Shaw shares 60 feline-focused phrases gathered during her worldwide travels as an animal advocate. Perfect for cat lovers, language nerds, and avid travelers, Cat Got Your Tongue? presents each saying in its native language along with an English translation, a simple explanation of its meaning and use, and a delightful illustration. For
Portuguese: "Quem não tem cão caça com gato," or "One who has no dog hunts with a cat" (we must make do with the resources we have)Yiddish: "Vern zol fun dir a blintshik, un di kats zol dikh khapn," or "May you turn into a blintz and be snatched by a cat" (a curse expressing ill will)Dutch: "De kat op het spek binden," or "tie the cat to the bacon" (to forbid something that's very tempting, like kids with a cookie jar)
Featuring proverbs from India, France, China, Malaysia, Turkey, Holland, and many more—in languages from Arabic to Spanish—this enchanting little book reveals the central role that cats play in cultures everywhere, whether to impart a wise piece of advice, insult a rude neighbor, or as they say in Romania, to "look like the cat at a calendar" (appear very confused).
There's more than one way to get the job done, or as they say in Finland, "There are many ways, said Grandma, while wiping the table with a cat..."
In this charming, gift-worthy collection, renowned kitten rescuer, humane educator, and author Hannah Shaw shares 60 feline-focused phrases gathered during her worldwide travels as an animal advocate. Perfect for cat lovers, language nerds, and avid travelers, Cat Got Your Tongue? presents each saying in its native language along with an English translation, a simple explanation of its meaning and use, and a delightful illustration. For
Portuguese: "Quem não tem cão caça com gato," or "One who has no dog hunts with a cat" (we must make do with the resources we have)Yiddish: "Vern zol fun dir a blintshik, un di kats zol dikh khapn," or "May you turn into a blintz and be snatched by a cat" (a curse expressing ill will)Dutch: "De kat op het spek binden," or "tie the cat to the bacon" (to forbid something that's very tempting, like kids with a cookie jar)
Featuring proverbs from India, France, China, Malaysia, Turkey, Holland, and many more—in languages from Arabic to Spanish—this enchanting little book reveals the central role that cats play in cultures everywhere, whether to impart a wise piece of advice, insult a rude neighbor, or as they say in Romania, to "look like the cat at a calendar" (appear very confused).
- GenresNonfiction
128 pages, Hardcover
Published July 1, 2025
3 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Shaw
17 books137 followersHannah Shaw is a kitten rescuer, humane educator, author, and unwavering animal advocate who has dedicated her life to finding innovative ways to protect animals. Her project, Kitten Lady, strives to create global change in the way we perceive and treat the tiniest and most vulnerable felines: orphan kittens.
Kitten Lady provides educational media, training resources, and instructional workshops and consulting services that help individuals and animal shelters learn how to save the lives of kittens--in a fun and engaging format.
Shaw is the author of the upcoming book Tiny But Mighty (Penguin Random House, 2019) and the upcoming children’s book Kitten Lady’s Big Book of Little Kittens (Simon and Schuster, 2019.) She has been featured as a guest expert on Animal Planet's My Cat From Hell, and her work has been profiled in People Magazine, Cosmopolitan, and other media outlets around the world. Shaw was awarded the 2017 Advocate of the Year award by CatCon Worldwide and the 2018 Advocacy Award by Kitten Rescue LA. She was named one San Diego City Beat’s “People of the Year” for 2018.
Kitten Lady provides educational media, training resources, and instructional workshops and consulting services that help individuals and animal shelters learn how to save the lives of kittens--in a fun and engaging format.
Shaw is the author of the upcoming book Tiny But Mighty (Penguin Random House, 2019) and the upcoming children’s book Kitten Lady’s Big Book of Little Kittens (Simon and Schuster, 2019.) She has been featured as a guest expert on Animal Planet's My Cat From Hell, and her work has been profiled in People Magazine, Cosmopolitan, and other media outlets around the world. Shaw was awarded the 2017 Advocate of the Year award by CatCon Worldwide and the 2018 Advocacy Award by Kitten Rescue LA. She was named one San Diego City Beat’s “People of the Year” for 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 7, 2025
In a Nutshell: A compilation of feline idioms and proverbs from various languages. Informative and entertaining. Cute illustrations as well. A good gift option for cat lovers and word lovers.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
English has plenty of feline phrases, ranging from ‘Who will bell the cat?’ to ‘Curiosity killed the cat’ to the titular ‘Cat got your tongue?’ This book helps us realise how ubiquitous the presence of cats is even in other languages.
Popularly known as “Kitten Lady”, the author is an animal advocate, kitten rescuer, and professional cat photographer. (She has also penned the lovely-sounding “Cats of the World”, which my library fortunately has. I am adding it to my immediate reading list.) This hardcover edition contains sixty cat-related phrases, gathered by her during her travels across thirty countries.
This book begins with a brilliant introductory note by the author that sets the right tone for the main content. The sixty entries each mention the origin language of the proverb/idiom, the actual proverb written in both the root language and in phonetic spelling, and the meaning/usage of the same. I appreciate that wherever possible, it also includes similar proverbs from English for contextual comparison.
The phrases are quite eclectic in meaning and usage. They are also partly paradoxical because they show cats in both good and bad light. But if we group them by how they portray cats, we would see that the largest set would be of phrases that highlight the dangers of upsetting cats, followed by the ones that glorify feline intelligence and sharpness. So no matter where we come from in the world, we agree that cats are dangerous and smart. 😅
Though not worldwide in scope, the book still encompasses a good range of locations. I like that the phrases aren’t taken only from common languages or bigger countries. The included proverbs come from languages as diverse as Ewe (spoken in West Africa, primarily in Ghana and Togo) and Nepali (from the tiny landlocked country next to India) to Flemish and Yiddish. All sixty entries are from countries within the continents of North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, with Europe and Asia getting the largest representation. This might be because the author has collected these phrases during her travels, and she might not have yet visited the remaining continents.
The Indian in me was mighty pleased to see two “billi”-inspired sayings from India (to be specific, sayings from the Hindi language.) To my embarrassment, I hadn’t even heard one of them (supposedly a folktale-based proverb) prior to reading it in this book. Oh well, now I know it! Never too old to learn! 🐱
Every entry is accompanied by a kitty illustration. I liked the art style on the cover page better than the inside content. Some of the feline sketches, especially the anthropomorphic ones, weren’t to my taste, but perhaps cat enthusiasts might get greater enjoyment from the graphics.
After a point, the proverbs do get a little repetitive, but that’s probably because I read the whole book in one sitting. On the whole, the variety is quite interesting and informative.
Recommended to cat lovers. This meowellous collection would make the purrfect gift to ailurophiles as well as linguaphiles.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for providing the DRC of “Cat Got Your Tongue?” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Threads || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
English has plenty of feline phrases, ranging from ‘Who will bell the cat?’ to ‘Curiosity killed the cat’ to the titular ‘Cat got your tongue?’ This book helps us realise how ubiquitous the presence of cats is even in other languages.
Popularly known as “Kitten Lady”, the author is an animal advocate, kitten rescuer, and professional cat photographer. (She has also penned the lovely-sounding “Cats of the World”, which my library fortunately has. I am adding it to my immediate reading list.) This hardcover edition contains sixty cat-related phrases, gathered by her during her travels across thirty countries.
This book begins with a brilliant introductory note by the author that sets the right tone for the main content. The sixty entries each mention the origin language of the proverb/idiom, the actual proverb written in both the root language and in phonetic spelling, and the meaning/usage of the same. I appreciate that wherever possible, it also includes similar proverbs from English for contextual comparison.
The phrases are quite eclectic in meaning and usage. They are also partly paradoxical because they show cats in both good and bad light. But if we group them by how they portray cats, we would see that the largest set would be of phrases that highlight the dangers of upsetting cats, followed by the ones that glorify feline intelligence and sharpness. So no matter where we come from in the world, we agree that cats are dangerous and smart. 😅
Though not worldwide in scope, the book still encompasses a good range of locations. I like that the phrases aren’t taken only from common languages or bigger countries. The included proverbs come from languages as diverse as Ewe (spoken in West Africa, primarily in Ghana and Togo) and Nepali (from the tiny landlocked country next to India) to Flemish and Yiddish. All sixty entries are from countries within the continents of North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, with Europe and Asia getting the largest representation. This might be because the author has collected these phrases during her travels, and she might not have yet visited the remaining continents.
The Indian in me was mighty pleased to see two “billi”-inspired sayings from India (to be specific, sayings from the Hindi language.) To my embarrassment, I hadn’t even heard one of them (supposedly a folktale-based proverb) prior to reading it in this book. Oh well, now I know it! Never too old to learn! 🐱
Every entry is accompanied by a kitty illustration. I liked the art style on the cover page better than the inside content. Some of the feline sketches, especially the anthropomorphic ones, weren’t to my taste, but perhaps cat enthusiasts might get greater enjoyment from the graphics.
After a point, the proverbs do get a little repetitive, but that’s probably because I read the whole book in one sitting. On the whole, the variety is quite interesting and informative.
Recommended to cat lovers. This meowellous collection would make the purrfect gift to ailurophiles as well as linguaphiles.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for providing the DRC of “Cat Got Your Tongue?” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Threads || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
May 17, 2025
From the beautiful illustrations to the different languages spoken around the world, this book was a very whimsical read. It is a short novella that shares 60 feline phrases from across the globe. The illustrations were beyond great, in my opinion. This book made me feel lighthearted and relaxed. It is a very easy to read book that I found to be informative! It also made me laugh quite a few times while reading it! This is a book that will put a big smile on your face and will leave you feeling like you just had a big heartwarming hug. I highly recommend this book to anyone that is a lover of cats! Overall, I rate this a 5 out of 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Hannah Shaw and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for this delightful digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is expected to be published on July 1, 2025!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Hannah Shaw and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for this delightful digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is expected to be published on July 1, 2025!
March 18, 2025
Many thanks to the Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I've aways been interested in linguistics as well as how fables and tales have changed and travelled around the world. More importantly, I love cats. And this neat little book has all three things wrapped into one. With a thoughtful introduction, this is a super cute book with great phrases from around the world. I was even surprised by how many different languages were included and some of the phrases had me laughing out loud - May the cat kick it needs to become part of my daily vocabulary!
I did wonder why the author decided to make a distinction between traditional and simplified Chinese as in the spoken language it doesn't really make a difference. As I understand it, the author travels a lot for her cat research and my guess is that she made the distinction based on location e.g. whether she came across the idiom in Taiwan or the People's Republic of China. In any case, it's nothing major, just something that had me wondering a bit. This is otherwise a perfect little book which I will definitely add to my physical shelf - phrase books like these are perfect for spontaneously sliding off the shelf to read a page or two when you need a kitty boost. I believe this would make a fantastic gift for any cat lover regardless of whether they are interested in linguistics or idioms.
December 24, 2025
Cat Got Your Tongue?: Curious Feline Phrases from Around the World by Hannah Shaw is a charming, illustrated cultural exploration of how cats have inspired language across many countries and cultures, showing that felines have not just sat on our laps but also on our tongues for centuries.
Shaw, better known as the “Kitten Lady” for her work in kitten rescue and humane education, collected 60 cat‑related proverbs and idioms from around the globe during her travels as an animal advocate, presenting each in its original language with an English translation and a simple explanation of its meaning and use alongside whimsical illustrations by Sophie Lucido Johnson.
What makes this book such a delight is how playfully informative it feels: you’ll meet sayings like the Portuguese “Quem não tem cão caça com gato” (One who has no dog hunts with a cat) about making do with what you have, or the Dutch “De kat op het spek binden” (tie the cat to the bacon) about tempting fate, each brought to life with colorful art and cultural context. This is a lighthearted, surprisingly educational, and laugh‑inducing while also being informative about language and culture beyond the Anglosphere.
It’s the kind of book that makes you smile, pause, and maybe even drop a new idiom into conversation, and its compact, gift‑ready format makes it perfect for cat lovers, linguists, or anyone curious about how people around the world express universal ideas through feline imagery.
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars. I’d give Cat Got Your Tongue? four stars because it’s funny, clever, and beautifully presented, turning something as simple as idioms into a delightful cross‑cultural adventure that feels both educational and heartwarming.
Its playful illustrations and global breadth mean you’ll come away with new favorites to share, even if the short, anthology‑like format leaves you wishing there were even more whiskered wisdom to explore.
Shaw, better known as the “Kitten Lady” for her work in kitten rescue and humane education, collected 60 cat‑related proverbs and idioms from around the globe during her travels as an animal advocate, presenting each in its original language with an English translation and a simple explanation of its meaning and use alongside whimsical illustrations by Sophie Lucido Johnson.
What makes this book such a delight is how playfully informative it feels: you’ll meet sayings like the Portuguese “Quem não tem cão caça com gato” (One who has no dog hunts with a cat) about making do with what you have, or the Dutch “De kat op het spek binden” (tie the cat to the bacon) about tempting fate, each brought to life with colorful art and cultural context. This is a lighthearted, surprisingly educational, and laugh‑inducing while also being informative about language and culture beyond the Anglosphere.
It’s the kind of book that makes you smile, pause, and maybe even drop a new idiom into conversation, and its compact, gift‑ready format makes it perfect for cat lovers, linguists, or anyone curious about how people around the world express universal ideas through feline imagery.
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars. I’d give Cat Got Your Tongue? four stars because it’s funny, clever, and beautifully presented, turning something as simple as idioms into a delightful cross‑cultural adventure that feels both educational and heartwarming.
Its playful illustrations and global breadth mean you’ll come away with new favorites to share, even if the short, anthology‑like format leaves you wishing there were even more whiskered wisdom to explore.
March 19, 2025
This was such a cute book. I loved reading about all the different idioms with the word cat in it around the world. It also made me realize there are actually so many idioms in Dutch/Flemish that contain the word cat (not all mentioned in the book though, but I didn’t expect that as including ALL cat idioms around the world would make the book waaaay longer). This was really enjoyable to read!
Thank you NetGalley and Ten Speed Press for the e-arc.
Thank you NetGalley and Ten Speed Press for the e-arc.
March 21, 2025
If you love cats or language or both, this is a must buy for children and adults! Hannah Shaw (AKA the Kitten Lady) traveled around the globe checking how cats were treated or cared for in different countries and cultures. While there, she would ask what colloquial expressions reference cats. And that's basis for this absolutely delightful illustrated book! Ranging from the Greek expression of a CAT WITH HORSESHOES "(meaning: A sharp, clever, quick-witted person)" to the Dutch TIE THE CAT TO THE BACON that's translates to "forbid something extremely tempting." And whenever possible, she has an English phrase with a similar meaning. Each phrase is highlighted on a spread with colorful and whimsical pictures. Just delightful! Thanks to netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2025
Received via Netgalley in exchange for a fair and unbiased review
I want to buy literally everyone I know a copy of this book.
Even the non-cat lovers in my life. I am not exaggerating, all of you may end up with this book at some point in the near future.
60 phrases, from all over the world, all involving cats. All hilariously and beautifully illustrated. So much to see and yet I wanted so. much more. I never wanted these to end. I would like this author to create an entire series of books, each featuring a different theme.
My favorites were always the most off kilter, and the Yiddish expressions somehow always made me laugh the most. I've often said I would love a book of Yiddish expressions to memorize, and use in every day life.
I could fill this review with my favorite phrases, but I don't want to discourage anyone from getting their hands on this AWESOME little book. So, here's a few of my favorites, with literally zero context or explanation.
"To place someone before the nose of a cat."
"Three legged cat kung fu."
"May the cat eat you, and may the devil eat the cat."
The last one may speak for itself, to be fair.
I want to buy literally everyone I know a copy of this book.
Even the non-cat lovers in my life. I am not exaggerating, all of you may end up with this book at some point in the near future.
60 phrases, from all over the world, all involving cats. All hilariously and beautifully illustrated. So much to see and yet I wanted so. much more. I never wanted these to end. I would like this author to create an entire series of books, each featuring a different theme.
My favorites were always the most off kilter, and the Yiddish expressions somehow always made me laugh the most. I've often said I would love a book of Yiddish expressions to memorize, and use in every day life.
I could fill this review with my favorite phrases, but I don't want to discourage anyone from getting their hands on this AWESOME little book. So, here's a few of my favorites, with literally zero context or explanation.
"To place someone before the nose of a cat."
"Three legged cat kung fu."
"May the cat eat you, and may the devil eat the cat."
The last one may speak for itself, to be fair.
October 17, 2025
Cat Got Your Tongue? is a small book of cat idioms and sayings from all around the world for those looking to add some purr-fect spice to their own vocabulary.
Each entry is either a page or a spread long. Readers will find the English translation, the language of origin, the statement in its original language and a small blurb that both describes what it means as well as which of our own English sayings that it is most like to.
The book is brightly inhabited with both actual cats participating in the saying or even in some cases anthropomorphic cats such as the one where the tom is holding her tail as they dance.
Cute, lighthearted and a quick read for both those who like cats and those who like language.
Each entry is either a page or a spread long. Readers will find the English translation, the language of origin, the statement in its original language and a small blurb that both describes what it means as well as which of our own English sayings that it is most like to.
The book is brightly inhabited with both actual cats participating in the saying or even in some cases anthropomorphic cats such as the one where the tom is holding her tail as they dance.
Cute, lighthearted and a quick read for both those who like cats and those who like language.
August 5, 2025
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ 5 stars ˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
aww what a cute book! it was so fun reading the different cat idioms from all around the world. all of the phrases in the book are accompanied by fun and colourful cat illustrations that make this a very enjoyable read!
definitely recommend reading this if you like cats, or language, or even both!
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press, and Hannah Shaw for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗
aww what a cute book! it was so fun reading the different cat idioms from all around the world. all of the phrases in the book are accompanied by fun and colourful cat illustrations that make this a very enjoyable read!
definitely recommend reading this if you like cats, or language, or even both!
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press, and Hannah Shaw for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗
March 20, 2025
Cat got your tongue is a marvellous book that contains an impressive compliation of cat idioms and phrases from all over the world. Reading this book made me so happy and I can totally see the love and affection that the author has for the feline cuties. The idioms are accompanied by vivid illustrations which is absolutely interesting. One thing is guaranteed - you will be coming back to this book for a re-read just so you can remember and time your response with a brilliant cat saying.
I'd highly recommend this book to all the cat enthusiasts because we need cat idioms and phrases to express ourselves better.
I'd highly recommend this book to all the cat enthusiasts because we need cat idioms and phrases to express ourselves better.
September 21, 2025
A cute collection of phrases and wisdom from around the world.
November 26, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
📚 Hannah Shaw’s Cat Got Your Tongue? is a delightful linguistic journey that explores how cats have padded their way into idioms, sayings, and cultural expressions across the globe. It’s part playful curiosity, part cultural anthropology, and wholly engaging for anyone who loves language, history, or—naturally—cats.
🐾 Shaw collects feline-inspired phrases from diverse languages and traditions, unpacking their origins and meanings.
- The book shows how cats, often seen as mysterious, mischievous, or wise, become symbols in human communication.
- This book is about how language reflects cultural identity, humor, and the way animals shape storytelling.
✨ Strengths
- Global Reach: Shaw moves beyond English, drawing from multiple languages to highlight the universality of feline imagery.
- Accessible Scholarship: Etymology and cultural context are explained clearly, without academic heaviness.
- Playful Tone: The writing balances wit and insight, making the book enjoyable for casual readers and language enthusiasts alike.
- Memorable Examples: Each phrase is presented with context that makes it easy to recall and share.
⚖️ Limitations
- Some sections lean more anecdotal than analytical, which may leave readers wanting deeper linguistic rigor.
- The focus on cats, while charming, means other animal idioms are only touched on briefly.
🐈 Cat Got Your Tongue? succeeds as both entertainment and education. Shaw celebrates the quirks of language through the lens of one of humanity’s most beloved companions. It’s a book that invites readers to smile, learn, and perhaps even see everyday phrases with fresh eyes.
📚 Hannah Shaw’s Cat Got Your Tongue? is a delightful linguistic journey that explores how cats have padded their way into idioms, sayings, and cultural expressions across the globe. It’s part playful curiosity, part cultural anthropology, and wholly engaging for anyone who loves language, history, or—naturally—cats.
🐾 Shaw collects feline-inspired phrases from diverse languages and traditions, unpacking their origins and meanings.
- The book shows how cats, often seen as mysterious, mischievous, or wise, become symbols in human communication.
- This book is about how language reflects cultural identity, humor, and the way animals shape storytelling.
✨ Strengths
- Global Reach: Shaw moves beyond English, drawing from multiple languages to highlight the universality of feline imagery.
- Accessible Scholarship: Etymology and cultural context are explained clearly, without academic heaviness.
- Playful Tone: The writing balances wit and insight, making the book enjoyable for casual readers and language enthusiasts alike.
- Memorable Examples: Each phrase is presented with context that makes it easy to recall and share.
⚖️ Limitations
- Some sections lean more anecdotal than analytical, which may leave readers wanting deeper linguistic rigor.
- The focus on cats, while charming, means other animal idioms are only touched on briefly.
🐈 Cat Got Your Tongue? succeeds as both entertainment and education. Shaw celebrates the quirks of language through the lens of one of humanity’s most beloved companions. It’s a book that invites readers to smile, learn, and perhaps even see everyday phrases with fresh eyes.
July 8, 2025
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Cat Got Your Tongue? is an appealingly illustrated collection of phrases from around the world with a feline theme curated and illustrated by Hannah Shaw. Released 1st July 2025 by Penguin Random House on their Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press imprint, it's 128 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats.
The book is full of idioms and phrases from different languages. Each phrase covers a 2 page spread and includes the original language, a transliteration/pronunciation, and an explanation with similar idioms in English. The language and concepts are very clean, there are a couple which are very (very) slightly suggestive, but nothing offensive or outré at all. The illustrations are simple and colorful.
Four stars. It would be a good choice for public or school library acquisition. It's possibly too niche to be a great choice for the home library, but it would make a nice gift.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Cat Got Your Tongue? is an appealingly illustrated collection of phrases from around the world with a feline theme curated and illustrated by Hannah Shaw. Released 1st July 2025 by Penguin Random House on their Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press imprint, it's 128 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats.
The book is full of idioms and phrases from different languages. Each phrase covers a 2 page spread and includes the original language, a transliteration/pronunciation, and an explanation with similar idioms in English. The language and concepts are very clean, there are a couple which are very (very) slightly suggestive, but nothing offensive or outré at all. The illustrations are simple and colorful.
Four stars. It would be a good choice for public or school library acquisition. It's possibly too niche to be a great choice for the home library, but it would make a nice gift.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
April 2, 2025
"Who life the cat's tail if not the cat itself?" meaning to toot your own horn. well I'll tell you that Hannah Shaw should be applying this phrase to herself!
This book is so cute. A short book about idioms and phrases surrounding cats and I adored it! I've always loved language and the ways we express ourselves (and cats, of course), so this book was right up my alley. I didn't realize there were SO many idioms and phrases surrounding cats. I got to connect with other cultures by getting an insight into the phrases they say. I can't wait to put them to use!
The illustrations??? So cute! The colors give a cozy feel and the art feels so whimsical and fun.
I would absolutely recommend this book to others and will be purchasing a copy when it comes out! I'll be talking about this book for weeks, trying to find fun ways to implement them in conversation so I can explain this newfound knowledge. I genuinely wish this was a series. I could breeze through a series of books on idioms like this, maybe surrounding other animals!
Thank you to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book is so cute. A short book about idioms and phrases surrounding cats and I adored it! I've always loved language and the ways we express ourselves (and cats, of course), so this book was right up my alley. I didn't realize there were SO many idioms and phrases surrounding cats. I got to connect with other cultures by getting an insight into the phrases they say. I can't wait to put them to use!
The illustrations??? So cute! The colors give a cozy feel and the art feels so whimsical and fun.
I would absolutely recommend this book to others and will be purchasing a copy when it comes out! I'll be talking about this book for weeks, trying to find fun ways to implement them in conversation so I can explain this newfound knowledge. I genuinely wish this was a series. I could breeze through a series of books on idioms like this, maybe surrounding other animals!
Thank you to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
July 2, 2025
This delightful book by the Kitten Lady, Hannah Shaw is a fascinating collection of proverbs and idioms from around the world, as ubiquitous and unique as the cats themselves.
These proverbs are an entertaining, engaging read and feature the quirks and the foibles of these loveable furry folk. Some of them are downright mean, like the Yiddish, "May you turn into a blintz and be snatched by a cat!!". Or the Croatian "Cat's cough", meaning a very simple or easy task.
A must-read for those who cherish felines, each proverb and idiom is accompanied by meticulously drawn, fitting artwork of cats, created by Sophie Lucido Johnson, illustrator, adding to our pleasure.
Even if you don't care much about cats, read the book to add to your repertoire of proverbs and idioms from around the world.
A fitting tribute by the Kitten Lady to the felines that brighten our days and give us so much pleasure with their antics.
I was given an ARC to peruse and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you, @NetGalley and @Ten Speed Press.
#CatGotYourTongue? #HannahShaw, #SophieLucidoJohnson #TenSpeedPress #HumourAndSatire
These proverbs are an entertaining, engaging read and feature the quirks and the foibles of these loveable furry folk. Some of them are downright mean, like the Yiddish, "May you turn into a blintz and be snatched by a cat!!". Or the Croatian "Cat's cough", meaning a very simple or easy task.
A must-read for those who cherish felines, each proverb and idiom is accompanied by meticulously drawn, fitting artwork of cats, created by Sophie Lucido Johnson, illustrator, adding to our pleasure.
Even if you don't care much about cats, read the book to add to your repertoire of proverbs and idioms from around the world.
A fitting tribute by the Kitten Lady to the felines that brighten our days and give us so much pleasure with their antics.
I was given an ARC to peruse and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you, @NetGalley and @Ten Speed Press.
#CatGotYourTongue? #HannahShaw, #SophieLucidoJohnson #TenSpeedPress #HumourAndSatire
August 18, 2025
From the creator of Cats of the World comes a new multi-cultural cat-splosion.
This book of idioms and proverbs would be loved by anyone who loves cats, languages, and learning. Hannah Shaw includes the phrases from various countries, the origin country, and the language it is originally in. It was fascinating to find out that some of the phrases we see used in the U.S. have similar counterparts in different cultures.
I don’t know why I didn’t recognize the name of the author; I’ve been following Hannah Shaw on social media as the Kitten Lady for several years now. She and her husband have such big hearts and supreme love for all things meow. As it goes, any of her work is worth the support and worth the read.
#ThxNetGalley #HannahShaw #CatGotYourTongue
Merged review:
From the creator of Cats of the World comes a new multi-cultural cat-splosion.
This book of idioms and proverbs would be loved by anyone who loves cats, languages, and learning. Hannah Shaw includes the phrases from various countries, the origin country, and the language it is originally in. It was fascinating to find out that some of the phrases we see used in the U.S. have similar counterparts in different cultures.
I don’t know why I didn’t recognize the name of the author; I’ve been following Hannah Shaw on social media as the Kitten Lady for several years now. She and her husband have such big hearts and supreme love for all things meow. As it goes, any of her work is worth the support and worth the read.
#ThxNetGalley #HannahShaw #CatGotYourTongue
This book of idioms and proverbs would be loved by anyone who loves cats, languages, and learning. Hannah Shaw includes the phrases from various countries, the origin country, and the language it is originally in. It was fascinating to find out that some of the phrases we see used in the U.S. have similar counterparts in different cultures.
I don’t know why I didn’t recognize the name of the author; I’ve been following Hannah Shaw on social media as the Kitten Lady for several years now. She and her husband have such big hearts and supreme love for all things meow. As it goes, any of her work is worth the support and worth the read.
#ThxNetGalley #HannahShaw #CatGotYourTongue
Merged review:
From the creator of Cats of the World comes a new multi-cultural cat-splosion.
This book of idioms and proverbs would be loved by anyone who loves cats, languages, and learning. Hannah Shaw includes the phrases from various countries, the origin country, and the language it is originally in. It was fascinating to find out that some of the phrases we see used in the U.S. have similar counterparts in different cultures.
I don’t know why I didn’t recognize the name of the author; I’ve been following Hannah Shaw on social media as the Kitten Lady for several years now. She and her husband have such big hearts and supreme love for all things meow. As it goes, any of her work is worth the support and worth the read.
#ThxNetGalley #HannahShaw #CatGotYourTongue
November 24, 2025
I love cats and languages, so when I saw this book at Philcon, I had to get it. It's entertaining enough, with cat-related expressions from many languages and amusing illustrations by Sophie Lucido Johnson. I know German pretty well and can verify that the German expressions are plausible, even if I don't know them all. I was a bit disappointed that it missed "Alles für die Katz," which literally means "Everything for the cat" and figuratively "All for nothing." But you can't catch them all in a small book.
As I said, it's small, with just a few words on each page. The illustrations are much of the fun, and it's disappointing that Johnson doesn't get credit on the front cover. The order seems random. I'd have liked them group by region, language, or something. The pages aren't numbered, so it's hard to make note of where a favorite expression is.
All the sayings are quoted in the script of their original language; if it's a non-Roman script, it's then transliterated. That's a good touch.
I don't regret buying the book, but I'd recommend it only to someone with a strong interest in cats and foreign languages.
As I said, it's small, with just a few words on each page. The illustrations are much of the fun, and it's disappointing that Johnson doesn't get credit on the front cover. The order seems random. I'd have liked them group by region, language, or something. The pages aren't numbered, so it's hard to make note of where a favorite expression is.
All the sayings are quoted in the script of their original language; if it's a non-Roman script, it's then transliterated. That's a good touch.
I don't regret buying the book, but I'd recommend it only to someone with a strong interest in cats and foreign languages.
June 22, 2025
What a treat of a book! Like a cat strutting down a fence with full confidence, this book explores idioms and sayings from around the world about cats. Yes, those fuzzy, adorable felines who make us laugh, comfort us when we are blue, kill those vicious mice and bring them to us as tributes (threats, they are showing us their capabilities), this books takes their eccentricities and translates them into words.
Among the pages are sayings written in Native languages, translated into English, and then related to common meaning. All are accompanied by drawings of beautiful drawings of cats, cats, and more cats.
Some of my favorites are:
1) Like a cat with seven souls
Arabic - ruah bisabe alaqti Mutalu
USE: To describe someone who has been through a lot of challenges but has managed to cope well.
2) A Cat Can't Stop Stealing Fish
Simplified Chinese - Māo găi bù liăo tōu xīng
USE: To describe a person whose habits are deeply engrained and unlikely to change. Often used to justify the behavior of men, similar to "boys will be boys."
3) There Are Four Cats
Spanish - Hay control Gatos
Meaning: There is very low attendance at this event.
I liked this one very much of a 2 part episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
If you are a cat lover and a logophile (lover of words), this book is a must-have for you.
Among the pages are sayings written in Native languages, translated into English, and then related to common meaning. All are accompanied by drawings of beautiful drawings of cats, cats, and more cats.
Some of my favorites are:
1) Like a cat with seven souls
Arabic - ruah bisabe alaqti Mutalu
USE: To describe someone who has been through a lot of challenges but has managed to cope well.
2) A Cat Can't Stop Stealing Fish
Simplified Chinese - Māo găi bù liăo tōu xīng
USE: To describe a person whose habits are deeply engrained and unlikely to change. Often used to justify the behavior of men, similar to "boys will be boys."
3) There Are Four Cats
Spanish - Hay control Gatos
Meaning: There is very low attendance at this event.
I liked this one very much of a 2 part episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
If you are a cat lover and a logophile (lover of words), this book is a must-have for you.
June 21, 2025
Author Hannah Shaw and her husband journeyed to other countries to research and photograph cats and asked the locals about cat-related sayings and idioms. Cats are chock full of character and cultures have their perspectives on the complex nature of these creatures. Sayings are rich and varied, true and humorous, and the charming illustrations made me smile and appreciate the cats in my life.
In this collection, the author includes sayings in the original language, translates them into English, and explains the meaning. Some examples are, "The first cats over the fence" (Polish), "To buy a cat in a sack" (German), "Cat's cough" (Croatian), "The hasty cat gave birth to blind kittens" (Italian), "Every cat is black at night" (Czech), and "Even an old cat drinks milk" (Swahili). Once you think them through, they make sense, a fun way to learn bits about cultures.
This alluring and captivating little book would add a bright spot to any cat lover's day, ideal as a special gift tucked in with cat treats or toys. A gem of pure joy and nostalgia.
In this collection, the author includes sayings in the original language, translates them into English, and explains the meaning. Some examples are, "The first cats over the fence" (Polish), "To buy a cat in a sack" (German), "Cat's cough" (Croatian), "The hasty cat gave birth to blind kittens" (Italian), "Every cat is black at night" (Czech), and "Even an old cat drinks milk" (Swahili). Once you think them through, they make sense, a fun way to learn bits about cultures.
This alluring and captivating little book would add a bright spot to any cat lover's day, ideal as a special gift tucked in with cat treats or toys. A gem of pure joy and nostalgia.
June 15, 2025
“Cat Got Your Tongue?” is a delightful exploration of cat-related idioms from around the world. In the introduction author Hannah Shaw (aka The Kitten Lady) explains that she gathered many of these phrases during her travels for “Cats of the World.”
Each phrase is in English, the native language is stated, then the phrase is in the native language. The phrase is then explained in English. One of my favorites is the Yiddish “I care like a cat cares that it’s Wednesday.” This means that one doesn’t care at all.
The hand drawn illustrations are playful and depict the cats in various situations. Don’t miss the cat decked out in a hunting costume.
If you’re a cat lover, this should be added to your shelf of cat books.
This book is great for feline lovers of all ages and would make an excellent gift book.
I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and Ten Speed Press, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Each phrase is in English, the native language is stated, then the phrase is in the native language. The phrase is then explained in English. One of my favorites is the Yiddish “I care like a cat cares that it’s Wednesday.” This means that one doesn’t care at all.
The hand drawn illustrations are playful and depict the cats in various situations. Don’t miss the cat decked out in a hunting costume.
If you’re a cat lover, this should be added to your shelf of cat books.
This book is great for feline lovers of all ages and would make an excellent gift book.
I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and Ten Speed Press, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2025
A release perhaps best thought of as a gift book, especially for those of us who like foreign words and phrases with all their own quirks. Here cats have hands, eat nine hundred mice then go on a pilgrimage, and sleep with the rat. According to the lively visuals they look cute in a bacon bowtie, as well, although some of the moggies look a lot fiercer, but the cat is never the one and the same thing.
This does what you expect – present the phrase, in the original alphabet or language, with a literal translation and the meaning or purpose of it, which sometimes links with a typical English saying, and sometimes doesn't. There aren't all that many, to be truthful, when you think that they practically all have two pages to themselves, but this is a decent browse, and is an added bonus to the shelves of linguists or cat-lovers – it's almost like "la pipi de chat" to decide whether to buy it or not.
This does what you expect – present the phrase, in the original alphabet or language, with a literal translation and the meaning or purpose of it, which sometimes links with a typical English saying, and sometimes doesn't. There aren't all that many, to be truthful, when you think that they practically all have two pages to themselves, but this is a decent browse, and is an added bonus to the shelves of linguists or cat-lovers – it's almost like "la pipi de chat" to decide whether to buy it or not.
March 24, 2025
This was such a cute book with cat phrases from other parts of the world. The art work was absolutely stunning and fun to look at. I will hopefully remember a few of these phrases to use at work!
One of my favorite phrases and art works in the book would be "Cat's Tongue." All of the cats slurping ramen was adorable. The term means a person who can't handle hot food or drinks.
Some other phrases I enjoyed are:
"May you turn into a blintz and be snatched by a cat"
"It's not always pancake week for the cat"
"I care like a cat cares that it's Wednesday"
Thank you to Netgalley, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press, and Hannah Shaw for an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion.
One of my favorite phrases and art works in the book would be "Cat's Tongue." All of the cats slurping ramen was adorable. The term means a person who can't handle hot food or drinks.
Some other phrases I enjoyed are:
"May you turn into a blintz and be snatched by a cat"
"It's not always pancake week for the cat"
"I care like a cat cares that it's Wednesday"
Thank you to Netgalley, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press, and Hannah Shaw for an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion.
May 3, 2025
Cat Got Your Tongue
This was such a fun and delightful read! The author has compiled cat-related phrases and expressions from various parts of the world, collecting them during her travels across different regions.
Each phrase is presented in its original language, along with an English translation and a simple example to illustrate its meaning. The book is also filled with charming illustrations that add to its playful appeal.
It's a very cute little book, which will be a great read for cat lovers and language enthusiasts equally. This was a light, feel-good read, which is bound to bring a smile to your face.
Thank you so much @netgalley and @tenspeedpress for providing the earc of this book.
3.75🌟
This was such a fun and delightful read! The author has compiled cat-related phrases and expressions from various parts of the world, collecting them during her travels across different regions.
Each phrase is presented in its original language, along with an English translation and a simple example to illustrate its meaning. The book is also filled with charming illustrations that add to its playful appeal.
It's a very cute little book, which will be a great read for cat lovers and language enthusiasts equally. This was a light, feel-good read, which is bound to bring a smile to your face.
Thank you so much @netgalley and @tenspeedpress for providing the earc of this book.
3.75🌟
December 4, 2025
I use Cat Got Your Tongue in my Spanish classroom as part of our unit on idioms, and it has become an absolute favorite. My students love skimming through the pages to discover funny sayings, and it instantly gets them talking and curious about language. The illustrations are adorable, the examples are memorable, and it makes learning feel playful rather than “school-like.”
It works beautifully as a quick warm-up, an extension activity, or just something students can pick up when they finish early. Every time they open it, they find something new to laugh about. Cute, clever, and genuinely useful—highly recommend for teachers, language lovers, and anyone who enjoys a fun twist on everyday expressions!
It works beautifully as a quick warm-up, an extension activity, or just something students can pick up when they finish early. Every time they open it, they find something new to laugh about. Cute, clever, and genuinely useful—highly recommend for teachers, language lovers, and anyone who enjoys a fun twist on everyday expressions!
April 24, 2025
I enjoyed reading Cat Got Your Tongue? Curious Cat Phrases from Around the World by New York Times bestselling author Hannah Shaw, which features illustrations by New Yorker cartoonist Sophie Lucido Johnson.
60 Cat related proverbs and idioms from around the world are presented in their native language along with a translation of the phrase in english, a simple explanation of their use and meaning, and an interesting illustration by Johnson.
This cute little book could be a great gift for a cat-lover you know!
Publication Date July 1, 2025
Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press
Humor & Satire
#Catgotyourtongue #netgalley
60 Cat related proverbs and idioms from around the world are presented in their native language along with a translation of the phrase in english, a simple explanation of their use and meaning, and an interesting illustration by Johnson.
This cute little book could be a great gift for a cat-lover you know!
Publication Date July 1, 2025
Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press
Humor & Satire
#Catgotyourtongue #netgalley
December 1, 2025
This is such a lovely volume of sayings accompanied by some delightful illustrations. Definitely a must for all cat lovers.
‘Cat got your tongue?’ Is a very familiar adage in the English adage, but there are cat sayings from all around the world. This graphic novel explores cat sayings from around the world.
It is a charming volume, humorous, entertaining and suitable for everyone, not just cat lovers. Each saying is presented in its native language with the English translation beside it. The sayings are brought to life by the lovely illustrations.
I really enjoyed reading this. Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
‘Cat got your tongue?’ Is a very familiar adage in the English adage, but there are cat sayings from all around the world. This graphic novel explores cat sayings from around the world.
It is a charming volume, humorous, entertaining and suitable for everyone, not just cat lovers. Each saying is presented in its native language with the English translation beside it. The sayings are brought to life by the lovely illustrations.
I really enjoyed reading this. Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 20, 2025
I've found my new email sign off: "May you turn into a blintz and be snatched by a cat."
Cat Got Your Tongue? is a delightful book authored by Hannah Shaw (aka the Kitten Lady) and charmingly illustrated by Sophie Lucido Johnson. I absolutely loved reading this. Grab your favorite cat(s) and get ready to add a wealth of cat-related idioms and proverbs to your repertoire.
Thank you to Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press and NetGalley for the advance reader's digital copy. #CatGotYourTongue #NetGalley
Cat Got Your Tongue? is a delightful book authored by Hannah Shaw (aka the Kitten Lady) and charmingly illustrated by Sophie Lucido Johnson. I absolutely loved reading this. Grab your favorite cat(s) and get ready to add a wealth of cat-related idioms and proverbs to your repertoire.
Thank you to Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press and NetGalley for the advance reader's digital copy. #CatGotYourTongue #NetGalley
July 6, 2025
This is a lovely little book full of cat-related phrases from around the world. I LOVE that the book truly does feature global idioms (not just those from the Anglosphere) and for those in languages other than English, that the book includes the phrase in the local language, a phoenetic translation, and the actual translation as well as the meanings.
The illustrations are comical and cute
It's a fun book, and I'm going to start using some of these idioms in my everyday life.
~Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book. ~
The illustrations are comical and cute
It's a fun book, and I'm going to start using some of these idioms in my everyday life.
~Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book. ~
March 27, 2025
This is a very enjoyable and fun book on the various phrases around the world where cats play an important role. We all know that there are lots of expressions in English that revolve around cats, including the title of the book. But who knew there were so many from all sorts of different cultures and languages.
With adorable pictures to highlight the various expressions, cat lovers will enjoy this easy to read book.
Five purrs and two paws up.
With adorable pictures to highlight the various expressions, cat lovers will enjoy this easy to read book.
Five purrs and two paws up.
May 6, 2025
A book perfect for cat connoisseurs and linguists alike! It's so interesting to see how cats have entwined themselves into languages across the world in such casual but notable ways. From cute to thoughtful to playful, all sorts of languages manage to capture the essence of cats and it's really such a treat to see a large selection of them in one place. Truly stunning, textured art. Would make a great gift book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Ten Speed Press for the arc!
Thanks to NetGalley and Ten Speed Press for the arc!
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