The Cats In Our Lives

by James Neville Mason, Pamela Kellino (Mason)

Actor James Mason co-wrote and illustrated this little book with his wife. The title says it all. This is one of only two copies I've found of this book online.

Genres: Cats, Nonfiction, Animals

199 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1949

About the author

James Neville Mason (15 May 1909 – 27 July 1984) was an English actor. He achieved considerable success in British cinema before becoming a star in Hollywood. He was nominated for three Academy Awards, three Golden Globes (winning once) and two BAFTA Awards throughout his career.

Reviews

[Allan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Tracked this 1947 out of print number on Abe Books. Found it delightful with Mason and his then-wife Pamela swapping chapters or segments in describing their experiences with their cats.

Mason writes just as you would have expected to - easy to hear his speaking voice and slight smile as you read, and Pamela was fun to get to know as well. Their experiences were manifold and interesting. Tragedy and fun go hand in hand with pet ownership over a period of years and the Masons had more than their share of both all through the war and the last years of the 40s decade, traveling on train and steamship all over England and America while keeping up with their deeply loved cats.

Nice read and nice to confirm one's opinion of a favorite actor.

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming little book written in a modest tone by James Mason and his wife. Delightful ink sketches by Mason. Sadly, there are more than a few anecdotes that don't end well.