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Cat Wumman: Tales o Nine Lives
Cat Wumman ABISBOOK Luath Press Ltd.
Paperback
First published September 30, 2025
6 people want to read
About the author
Gerda Stevenson
34 books3 followersGerda Stevenson is a Scottish actress, director and writer, described by The Scotsman in 1999 as 'Scotland's finest actress'. She has played a vast range of parts in the theatre, including both Desdemona and Lady MacBeth, and has appeared in many television dramas. She was Murren's mother in the Mel Gibson film Braveheart, and her voice is familiar to listeners of British radio, as a reader of short stories and adaptations. As a writer she has adapted a number of works for radio, most recently The Heart of Midlothian by Sir Walter Scott for BBC Radio 4, nominated for a Sony Award in 2008. Gerda played the part of the heroine Jeanie Deans. Gerda Stevenson's partner was the Scottish Gaelic poet Aonghas MacNeacail and she has published poetry and stories herself.
Her father is the musician and composer Ronald Stevenson. Her sister Savourna Stevenson (born 1961) has recorded many works on the Scottish harp.
Her father is the musician and composer Ronald Stevenson. Her sister Savourna Stevenson (born 1961) has recorded many works on the Scottish harp.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
November 22, 2025
A fun read with the bulk of the Scots flowing well with phonetics. Glossary was very helpful even though my lack of Scots skills slowed it down a bit. I did reference my multi volune Scots dictionary occasionally and could not locate any of the words in my searches which was confusing. The background of ballads, foklore , etc prior to the story was an interesting prelude.
October 27, 2025
‘Cat Wumman’ is a collection of short stories that analyses the role of women in society, community, and how we deal with relationships and grief. It is written in the Scots language, of which I heartily approve! I am a big advocate for using Scots in literature, and it feels like Gerda is revelling in its use. I am not a native speaker of Scots, despite being born here, but I have been around it my whole life, so I find reading it quite comforting in a way. Some people may struggle to gain comprehension at first, but it will click into place, and there is always the online Scots dictionary if you come across a word you need guidance on. I even had to use it a few times myself. But that is the fun part of having a living language, its evolution and development, and by having stories and books like this, we help guarantee that it will still be around till the end of time!
‘Braid an Narrow’ is the story of a couple dealing with the decline of one of their health. This really resonated with myself as my husband has to care for me at times and there was a period last year when I was sleeping on the ‘narrow’ bed. There was a lot of empathy throughout this story and it came across as being authentic and very relatable.
‘Warlds Apairt’ sees an older woman, now living in a care home, who when chasing her dumpling down the hall, falls into another world. A world where they care and revel in their elders. I found this to be a stark and profound story that examines lives, disappointments, and regrets and also how we treat our elders in modern times. It was also packed full of humour and I was chuckling as she careened after her dumpling!
‘Cat Wumman’ is a tale of generational trauma and how we may envision dreams for ourselves, certain communities don’t have these opportunities. It is a cautionary tale of emotional and physical abuse and how that builds up and up to when the victim snaps and draws their claws.
All of the short stories were illuminating and engaging and I devoured them all in record time. Normally, I prefer novels but these were brilliant as the author created stories that were nuanced, creative and utterly brilliant. Maybe, it is because the myths and literature that inspired her work are of the short form. I thoroughly recommend this book!
Let me know if you pick it up.
October 31, 2025
This is one of those books that you really don't see coming and I absolutely loved every second.
It is a collection of 9 short stories that had me completely immersed from start to finish.
At only just over 120 pages, this looks like it would be a super quick and easy read.
But written in full Scots, this really took me by surprise.
However, after reading (and re-reading) the first page, this really didn't take me long to get into the swing of things and I was soon back to my full reading speed and talking like a true Scot (well, inside my head at least!)
For those who are concerned by this, there is a concise glossary of terms in the back of the book, so you can easily look up anything you're unsure of, but to be honest, I don't think I looked there once (until the end) and as you read, it's pretty easy to get used to and work most things out by the context.
Now, I normally like to point you towards a favourite piece in a collection like this, but I honestly can't do that here.
I absolutely loved every story, each with it's own themes, charm and merits.
There were a range of ideas here, mostly depicting authentic, everyday Scottish life but we also see some chilling tales that focus on folklore too which had the perfect balance and made for the best read during this spooky season.
I absolutely love a short story collection and am always amazed at how authors manage to pack so much into each one.
These stories were so well written with a diverse range of characters who I found it really easy to connect with - even in this short space of time.
I've always loved books set in Scotland and am now obsessed with the language too.
Don't be surprised if you spot me browsing and ordering more books translated into Scots soon!
Don't be afraid and grab this book now - I promise, you will love it's unique flavour too!
I can't wait to find more treasures like this and more from this author.
It is a collection of 9 short stories that had me completely immersed from start to finish.
At only just over 120 pages, this looks like it would be a super quick and easy read.
But written in full Scots, this really took me by surprise.
However, after reading (and re-reading) the first page, this really didn't take me long to get into the swing of things and I was soon back to my full reading speed and talking like a true Scot (well, inside my head at least!)
For those who are concerned by this, there is a concise glossary of terms in the back of the book, so you can easily look up anything you're unsure of, but to be honest, I don't think I looked there once (until the end) and as you read, it's pretty easy to get used to and work most things out by the context.
Now, I normally like to point you towards a favourite piece in a collection like this, but I honestly can't do that here.
I absolutely loved every story, each with it's own themes, charm and merits.
There were a range of ideas here, mostly depicting authentic, everyday Scottish life but we also see some chilling tales that focus on folklore too which had the perfect balance and made for the best read during this spooky season.
I absolutely love a short story collection and am always amazed at how authors manage to pack so much into each one.
These stories were so well written with a diverse range of characters who I found it really easy to connect with - even in this short space of time.
I've always loved books set in Scotland and am now obsessed with the language too.
Don't be surprised if you spot me browsing and ordering more books translated into Scots soon!
Don't be afraid and grab this book now - I promise, you will love it's unique flavour too!
I can't wait to find more treasures like this and more from this author.
October 31, 2025
Cat Wumman is Stevenson’s second short story collection, featuring 9 tales that explore contemporary Scottish life, all inspired by folk stories, Scots ballads, and poetry.
I really enjoyed the feeling of this book. Each story felt unique and thoughtful. My personal favourite was The Witch, it stuck with me the most. And people who know me would know why I vibed with it.
One of the most interesting parts of this collection is that it’s written in Scots. It definitely adds something special and makes the stories, giving it a bit of cultural depth. That said, as someone with dyslexia, it did make it hard for me to read, taking me longer to get through the book. If you have a similar processing disorder, I’d really recommend getting the digital version so you can switch to a dyslexia-friendly font, which I really needed to be able to take anything in whilst reading. And honestly, the stories are worth it, I did have a good time reading them even it it took me some time.
I did have to Google some phrases, which that fine, I like a book that teaches me new things. It may put some people off reading it.
Personally, I think it added to the atmosphere, and the stories were enjoyable. They are all perfectly capable of standing on their own as each tale is very different, but all carry threw an underlying theme of family, all the good, the bad and the sad that comes with it.
On a totally selfish note, I’d love to see this an audiobook version. Because I just know I have missed something, and I did find some YouTube videos of Stevenson reading out some pieces of her work. It was nice to hear it said out loud.
This book is available on Amazon.
I really enjoyed the feeling of this book. Each story felt unique and thoughtful. My personal favourite was The Witch, it stuck with me the most. And people who know me would know why I vibed with it.
One of the most interesting parts of this collection is that it’s written in Scots. It definitely adds something special and makes the stories, giving it a bit of cultural depth. That said, as someone with dyslexia, it did make it hard for me to read, taking me longer to get through the book. If you have a similar processing disorder, I’d really recommend getting the digital version so you can switch to a dyslexia-friendly font, which I really needed to be able to take anything in whilst reading. And honestly, the stories are worth it, I did have a good time reading them even it it took me some time.
I did have to Google some phrases, which that fine, I like a book that teaches me new things. It may put some people off reading it.
Personally, I think it added to the atmosphere, and the stories were enjoyable. They are all perfectly capable of standing on their own as each tale is very different, but all carry threw an underlying theme of family, all the good, the bad and the sad that comes with it.
On a totally selfish note, I’d love to see this an audiobook version. Because I just know I have missed something, and I did find some YouTube videos of Stevenson reading out some pieces of her work. It was nice to hear it said out loud.
This book is available on Amazon.
October 30, 2025
I loved the sound of this book; nine short stories written in Scots language. And it genuinely was like reading a book written in a different language, which meant I read very slowly at first due to flicking to the glossary and back on the majority of words to help me understand. But this hindered my ability to connect with the stories until I began to lean in to the feeling of the words and sentences. And as soon as I stopped obsessively checking the translation of each word, it was like something clicked: I was drawn into the emotion and context of each story.
As I read, I found that my inner narrator was speaking in a beautiful Scots lilt, while the words lifted from the page with a rawness and honesty that I don’t think would have been as present if the stories had been written in the typical published syntax.
The otherness of the subjects in each story haunted me, especially at this time of year when it was this deadly perception that was associated with the witch trials. My heart ached especially reading The Witch, where cruel ridicule had a deep impact.
I liked how the inspiration for each story was included at the start; it was a bit like a palette cleanser before immersing myself in the next one.
This is a book to be savoured, not rushed; to allow yourself to forget about the world around you, and briefly enter the reality created by Gerda Stevenson before returning with a thud, slightly breathless, and changed in some way.
I’m giving this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and I’m sure this won’t be the only time I read it.
As I read, I found that my inner narrator was speaking in a beautiful Scots lilt, while the words lifted from the page with a rawness and honesty that I don’t think would have been as present if the stories had been written in the typical published syntax.
The otherness of the subjects in each story haunted me, especially at this time of year when it was this deadly perception that was associated with the witch trials. My heart ached especially reading The Witch, where cruel ridicule had a deep impact.
I liked how the inspiration for each story was included at the start; it was a bit like a palette cleanser before immersing myself in the next one.
This is a book to be savoured, not rushed; to allow yourself to forget about the world around you, and briefly enter the reality created by Gerda Stevenson before returning with a thud, slightly breathless, and changed in some way.
I’m giving this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and I’m sure this won’t be the only time I read it.
November 25, 2025
Review of Cat Wumman: Tales o Nine Lives by Gerda Stevenson
"Cat Wumman: Tales o Nine Lives" is a delightful and immersive collection of short stories by Gerda Stevenson, written entirely in Scots. From the very first page, I was captivated by the language, which brought a whole new layer of charm and depth to the stories. The book transports readers into the heart of Scottish culture in a way that feels both authentic and enchanting.
One of the standout stories for me was “Wairlds Apairt.” This six-page tale lingered in my mind for days after reading, sparking thoughts and reflections that I couldn't shake. The way Stevenson weaves emotion, character, and setting into such a compact narrative is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.
Although the Scots dialect can be a bit challenging at first for readers unfamiliar with it, the prose quickly becomes second nature. Once I settled into the rhythm of the language, the flow of the stories became much easier to follow, and I found myself fully absorbed in the worlds Stevenson created.
This book is perfect for anyone looking for a read that is both fascinating and rewarding. It’s a charming introduction to Scots language and culture, and I highly recommend it, especially for those who enjoy immersive and thought-provoking literature. I thoroughly enjoyed this solid 4-star read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Cat Wumman: Tales o Nine Lives" is a delightful and immersive collection of short stories by Gerda Stevenson, written entirely in Scots. From the very first page, I was captivated by the language, which brought a whole new layer of charm and depth to the stories. The book transports readers into the heart of Scottish culture in a way that feels both authentic and enchanting.
One of the standout stories for me was “Wairlds Apairt.” This six-page tale lingered in my mind for days after reading, sparking thoughts and reflections that I couldn't shake. The way Stevenson weaves emotion, character, and setting into such a compact narrative is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.
Although the Scots dialect can be a bit challenging at first for readers unfamiliar with it, the prose quickly becomes second nature. Once I settled into the rhythm of the language, the flow of the stories became much easier to follow, and I found myself fully absorbed in the worlds Stevenson created.
This book is perfect for anyone looking for a read that is both fascinating and rewarding. It’s a charming introduction to Scots language and culture, and I highly recommend it, especially for those who enjoy immersive and thought-provoking literature. I thoroughly enjoyed this solid 4-star read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2025
This is a collection of short stories, written in Scottish dialect and sharing a mix of stories somewhat quirky but with many exploring loss and family.
There are 10 stories to disappear into. If you're not used to the dialect then it takes a little concentration but once used to it you do pick up the pace. It's helpful that there's a glossary at the back should you need it.
The story themselves are all very different in terms of the main speaker and their tale. However, it's very clear throughout all that family is important. Family isn't always the same and for some it's not as close as they'd like or they have lost someone dear to themselves. It shows the negatives that people can bring unto others but also the dedication of people who commit and hold that commitment dear. Losing family is jarring but so is facing ones identity and mortality and you get raw accounts within some of the stories that make these quite emotive despite them being quite short.
It's easy to get lost in the stories and I found that their messages of community and family were important. No assumptions to be made and to be grateful for what you have if you've been lucky to have a family that is warm and supportive. Life can seem a burden to some in this and ageing and sickness adds to the vulnerability of some characters and relationships.
There are 10 stories to disappear into. If you're not used to the dialect then it takes a little concentration but once used to it you do pick up the pace. It's helpful that there's a glossary at the back should you need it.
The story themselves are all very different in terms of the main speaker and their tale. However, it's very clear throughout all that family is important. Family isn't always the same and for some it's not as close as they'd like or they have lost someone dear to themselves. It shows the negatives that people can bring unto others but also the dedication of people who commit and hold that commitment dear. Losing family is jarring but so is facing ones identity and mortality and you get raw accounts within some of the stories that make these quite emotive despite them being quite short.
It's easy to get lost in the stories and I found that their messages of community and family were important. No assumptions to be made and to be grateful for what you have if you've been lucky to have a family that is warm and supportive. Life can seem a burden to some in this and ageing and sickness adds to the vulnerability of some characters and relationships.
October 29, 2025
What a fun and captivating read this has been! And perfect for the time of the year as Samhain dawns, the veils thin between the worlds. Thank you to @lovebooktours and @luathpress for this gifted copy to review! But the hugest thanks to Gerda - you are one gifted Scot who has given me tales I won't forget anytime soon.
What made it so captivating for me were the twist and turns within the plots of the stories. One of my favorites was Cat Wumman herself. Had me gasping despite almost having a foreboding sense of what was about to happen. Pacing is excellent.
And what I really want to bring to attention here is the Scots it is written and delivered to us in. Made for beautiful stimulating reading and breathing life into the characters and their worlds. There is a depth, a beauty to the Scots language that transcends the tales themselves. Bringing different regions of Scotland together. Bringing the ancient and the modern. Pandemics and immigration. Grief, love, the fluidity of our lives and our choices. Wrapped in ancestral ties. Dark satire. The Uncanny. And a glossary at the back to boot!
Loved loved loved it! Feeling very proud of what Stevenson has achieved and her craft. Highly recommend especially if you're looking for a quick engaging read!
What made it so captivating for me were the twist and turns within the plots of the stories. One of my favorites was Cat Wumman herself. Had me gasping despite almost having a foreboding sense of what was about to happen. Pacing is excellent.
And what I really want to bring to attention here is the Scots it is written and delivered to us in. Made for beautiful stimulating reading and breathing life into the characters and their worlds. There is a depth, a beauty to the Scots language that transcends the tales themselves. Bringing different regions of Scotland together. Bringing the ancient and the modern. Pandemics and immigration. Grief, love, the fluidity of our lives and our choices. Wrapped in ancestral ties. Dark satire. The Uncanny. And a glossary at the back to boot!
Loved loved loved it! Feeling very proud of what Stevenson has achieved and her craft. Highly recommend especially if you're looking for a quick engaging read!
October 28, 2025
Cat Wumman is a fantastic selection of short stories about women. Interestingly told in the Scots language which I adored as well. Each story focuses on the different roles or lives of women in modern society. I did enjoy all the stories and was able to devour this book quickly as well. All in all this was an interesting and insightful collection told with empathy and a little bit of humour at times. A solid 4 stars.
As always thank you to Love Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
As always thank you to Love Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
October 5, 2025
I really enjoyed that this collection had stories that I had never heard of and enjoyed getting into this collection. I enjoyed how good Gerda Stevenson wrote this and was invested from the first story. I enjoyed how different each concept was and enjoyed the overall journey. It uses the Scottish element perfectly and enjoyed the folk element to this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌶️
If you love being enriched in culture and a preserver of culture then this is the one for you!
It's a bit clunky to get into because we're not used to reason a dialect but it's definitely an experience that supports the enjoyment and reminder that it's centred on Scottish folklore.
Definitely will be telling friends to buy this one 😍
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌶️
If you love being enriched in culture and a preserver of culture then this is the one for you!
It's a bit clunky to get into because we're not used to reason a dialect but it's definitely an experience that supports the enjoyment and reminder that it's centred on Scottish folklore.
Definitely will be telling friends to buy this one 😍
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews