High Clowder Cats

by Ruby Knight

Life is not easy for a feral cat at the best of times, but the difficulties Bushytail faces on his journey to search for a home are far from ordinary. Bushytail wants to find his own territory, but the journey is dangerous. He has to avoid the humans and their noisy machines as well as being on alert for other toms that may want to challenge him. He is used to relying on his wits to survive, however, Bushytail realises that this time he needs friends to help him. He joins up with a band of clowderless young toms. After being on his on for so long he is glad to have company, but this is just the start of the long journey Bushytail makes, along the way discovering who he is and how he fits into the world of cats. Bushytail is guided by the enigmatic Bristle, who insists that Bushytail needs him as a mentor. At first, Bushytail does not see the point of the rules Bristle is trying to teach him, but in awe of Bristle's powers, and with much encouragement, he perseveres. Unfortunately, the things Bristle is trying to teach him do not come naturally to Bushytail, but Bristle is convinced that Bushytail will need the skills being taught and will not take no for an answer. Like any young cat, Bushytail has high hopes and dreams, however, in the end his destiny is thrust upon him rather than being a path of his own choosing. There are many times when he nearly gives up, but, with the help of the Stone, he learns to put the needs of others before himself and accept the future that is laid out before him. Bushytail is eventually transformed into a spiritual guardian and master warrior. Every step of the way his self-doubt threatens to overwhelm him, but somehow, despite his misgivings, he becomes instrumental in creating a new order for catkind through High Clowder. Unfortunately for Bushytail, not all cats are convinced that the new order is best for catkind. Cats have always walked alone, with power being bestowed only on the strongest. Those cats who are weak or infirm, generally do not survive for long. For a long time, this has been the natural order of things. Some cats question whether the idea of a new community - where the very young, elderly, weak and sick are cared for - should be allowed. The question is, even if he is successful, will Bushytail be able to live out his life in peace with those he loves, in the clowder he is trying so hard to make a safe haven for all? High Clowder Cats is the first book in the series Clowder Cats by author Ruby Knight. This series follows the adventures of feral cats living together and their struggle to survive.

Genres: Young Adult, Cats

235 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2022

About the author

Award-winning author Ruby Knight was born in Australia and grew up in the Australian bush. After completing a degree in music composition, she toured in a rock band before becoming a teacher. She began writing her debut novel when a student she was teaching refused to read anything unless it was about cats. When she’s not writing or teaching, she can be found singing in jazz clubs.

Reviews

[Nela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers are immersed in a captivating fantasy novel that follows the journey of a feral cat named Bushytail in search of his own territory. In High Clowder Cats by Ruby Knight, the author skillfully incorporates the unique characteristics and behavior of felines, providing an interesting perspective on the way cats think and act. It is fascinating to see how the author creates a rich and immersive world that reflects the complexity of the feline psyche.
The book is beautifully written, with vivid descriptions that bring the world of the cats to life. The author's attention to detail, such as the physical performance and characteristic movements of cats, makes the story even more compelling. The writing style is engaging, making it easy for young readers to immerse themselves in the narrative while also providing a window into real-world issues that teenagers face. The author seamlessly weaves fantasy, fiction, and age-appropriate goals, such as autonomy, friendship, romance, and mastery.
The plot is charming and imaginative, with well-developed characters that readers will easily connect with. The story is absorbing and easy to read, making it an enjoyable experience for all readers. This is an inspiring book that offers valuable lessons to young adults, making it an excellent choice for pleasure reading or as a classroom resource.
This is an exceptional book that offers a unique perspective on the feline world. The author's writing style, attention to detail, and well-crafted plot make it an excellent choice for readers of all ages who are looking for an engaging and thought-provoking read.

[Huda · Rating 5 out of 5]

High Clowder Cats is a compelling novel that follows the perilous journey of a feral cat named Bushytail, in search of a home. However, the challenges he faces are anything but ordinary, as he must navigate treacherous terrain, avoid the dangers posed by humans and their noisy machines, and fend off other territorial toms. Undeterred, he joins forces with a band of young toms led by the mysterious Bristle, and together they set out to master the three rules and unlock the mystical powers that will secure the future of their feline species.

Author Ruby Knight does an exceptional job of creating a rich and immersive world of feral cats and their daily struggles for survival. The characters are well-developed, each with their own unique personality and motivations, making them feel like real animals with their own thoughts and emotions. What sets this book apart is the author's deep understanding of feline behavior and psychology, which shines through in every page.

Readers will be drawn into the captivating plot and the book's thought-provoking themes of community, friendship, and perseverance. The message that even the smallest among us can make a difference is a powerful one, and it will resonate with readers of all ages. The writing is beautifully crafted, making it a touching and memorable read that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.

This novel is a must-read for animal lovers and fans of compelling fiction. It is a heart-warming tale that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a masterfully written story that will captivate their imagination.

[Conscientious · Rating 5 out of 5]

High Clowder Cats by Ruby Knight is a delightful and unique adventure that follows the journey of Bushytail, a young cat seeking to establish his own territory free from the disturbances caused by humans and dogs. As he embarks on his journey, he encounters a group of clowderless toms, including notable characters like Brokenear, Barrel, Stealth, and Stretch. Despite his initial reservations, Bushytail ends up leading the group with wisdom, bravery, and justice. With the help of his loyal friend and mentor, Bristle, Bushytail discovers his true potential as a leader and sets out to save the catkind from danger.

Knight's mastery of feline behavior and communication is truly remarkable and adds to the overall exotic charm of the story. The author's use of narration and characterization is captivating, drawing readers into the world of these beloved pets. Bushytail's character is fierce and endearing, making it easy for readers to become fully invested in his journey. The plot is suspenseful and keeps readers engaged from beginning to end, with hilarious and thrilling encounters that are unmatched.

This book is not only an entertaining read, but it is also an educational one for children and young adults, and enlightening for adults as well. The author adeptly weaves important themes of triumph over evil, teamwork, and care into the storyline. The writing is gentle yet engaging, making it easy for readers of all ages to learn while having fun.

As a cat lover, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this spectacular book and highly recommend it to others. It deserves a well-deserved 5-star rating for its marvelous and extraordinary storytelling.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Ruby Knight offers readers a delightful tale that follows the adventures of a young feline named Bushytail, who sets out to find his own territory. As he journeys through unfamiliar lands, he discovers the value of companionship and ultimately leads a group of clowderless toms with wisdom, bravery, and justice.

In High Clowder Cats, Knight has masterfully created an engaging narrative that introduces readers to a host of fascinating "cat-racters" such as Brokenear, Barrel, Stealth, and Stretch. With the support of his loyal friend and mentor, Bristle, Bushytail rises to the occasion and embarks on a journey that is nothing short of heroic.

Beyond the excitement and adventure, this book offers insightful lessons that are both educational and thought-provoking. It explores complex topics like death and wanting to belong in a way that is relatable to young readers.
What makes this book truly special is how it encourages readers to believe in themselves and embrace the power of teamwork. The story's message is clear: no matter where you come from, you have the ability to achieve your goals and make a positive impact in the world.

In addition to its valuable lessons, High Clowder Cats is a beautifully written and entertaining story that will keep readers engaged from start to finish. It's a must-read for any animal or cat lover and a great choice for those looking for a fun and heartwarming fantasy adventure.

[Susan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Princess Fuzzypants here: I loved this story, not just because the hero is a ginger kitty with bushy plumage. His name is Bushytail. He is an orphan without any siblings as he tries to find his place in the world. He first stumbles upon a clowder of outsiders including cats who will define his life going forward. When humans impinge on their home, they scatter and before long Bushytail and Bristle join forces. Bristle turns out to be the mentor Bushytail needs so by the time they arrive at the High Clowder, he has become the leader the clowder so desperately needs.

One of the escapees from the original clowder, Brokenear, is the despotic, cruel dictator. Bushytail and Bristle know that the cats deserve better. Many trials and tribulations, battles and intrigues follow. It is a perilous journey but Bushytail seldom falters. With the support of the clowder, he is able to defeat the vicious despot and the cats, including his daughter, Storm, are able to create a society that will allow the cats to be free but also protected, There are some very moving, dramatic and sad goodbyes along the way. But through it all, the reader cannot fail to be inspired by Bushytail and cheer him on to success.

Five purrs and two paws up.

[Lia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.
This was cute, touching and emotional journey of one amazing cat with human soul! I loved the book and Bushytail!

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the cats in this story and liked the story that kept me reading.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life as a feral cat is not easy. When you are alone without a colony, surviving is even harder. Bushytail is determined to have a territory and family of his own. So he sets off to find a territory away from humans where he can meet other tom cats. He finds a home with a group of toms, and they have great adventures together. That is until one of the tom cats, Watcher, Bushytail’s friend, meets a tragic end. Bushytail is shocked and sad that his friend has died. He decides to set off for another territory, hoping to start over. On his way, he is joined by Bristle, a wise, secretive, and strong tom cat. This chance meeting is the beginning of a story of hope, love, sacrifice, and adventure.

Ruby Knight has written an incredible fantasy story for teens and young adult readers that will also entertain and captivate adult readers. The protagonist Bushytail is resilient, sweet, and has hidden leadership qualities that are revealed as the story unfolds. He does, however, have some fascinating weaknesses that provide additional depth to his character. Bristle, Bushytail’s mentor, is a medicine cat; he is mysterious and reveals his knowledge and teachings to Bushytail whether he wants these lessons or not. The other characters in the story are detailed and add an additional layer to the overall story as you get to know them. Readers will find themselves cheering for them and frantically turning the pages, wondering what they’ll get up to next.

The pace of the story never lets up; readers are kept on edge, waiting to see what happens next to this band of cats. The drama in the novel is well done and commendable; readers can easily visualize the dynamics between the characters. The story’s setting is well written and makes for a pleasant reading experience as the reader can visualize the environment and feel like they are there with this colony of cats. The world-building is expertly woven with extra attention paid to the small details making for a memorable and immersive experience.

High Clowder Cats by Ruby Knight is a captivating young adult fantasy novel. The storyline is original, interesting, and easy to get lost in. This is a fantastic start to this new series about a group of feral cats and the struggles they face in order to survive.

[Aamna Jamil · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very cute fictional book by Ruby Knight. This is the first part of Clowder Cats Series and I absolutely loved it. I understand that to write a story in the voice of a human is something different but to write a story from the perspective of an animal is truly an art and author has penned down a wonderful story with full of emotions and drama. It is a story about a feral cat who is determined to have a clam of his own. There are very cute romantic scenes as well which made me interested in this book. I was truly amazed how author has put so many feelings into a story of cats.

Bushytail is a cat who lived in the world of humans and all other cats were terrified of humans and their desire to pet cats. Bushytail always knew his destination is in far away land so he set his journey by overcoming his fears. He made a friend on the way who helped him teach different aspects of life and how to survive in the land of other tom cats. Bushytail was devastated on the death of his friend Watcher and left that territory in the search of another one. He met his mentor Bristle who remained loyal to him and led him to make his own clan of tom cats. Bushytail has many types of characteristics. He was smart, funny, caring, loving, determined and above all a true leader to stand against the evil for his clan. Once he overcame his fears there was no one stopping him. The incidents during his life made him stronger and did not weaken him. My favorite part of this book started when his wife was about to give birth to kittens and how he cared for her throughout. His non-stop worry and care melted my heart. The pace of the story was set in a way to keep the reader interested and wondering what will happen next. The story structure is also good and visualization was perfect according to the theme of the book.

Ruby has written a great young adult novel from the perspective of a cat and an original piece of art. I loved every single part of this book. Every chapter, every line, every emotion is close to my heart. It is a very different type of book if you are a romance reader but you won’t regret reading it.

My favorite quote from this book was “The sun always rises, Bushytail. It’s just that sometimes the night seems very long”
Let me know yours ❤

[Graisi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Ruby Knight, Netgalley, and Books Go Social, for this free ARC in exchange for a review.

Though the book does suffer from a bit too much telling instead of showing, it's still a cute novel.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

High Clowder Cats is not only unique, but also a great written story with intriguing characters. This story will capture you form the very beginning thanks to Ruby Knight´s wonderful writing. The classic elements of a fantasy story are there, which will make any fan of the genre enjoy this story and even if you are not a big fan of fantasy, this would be a great novel to start with. It would also be a great a story to introduce children to the fantasy genre as they will certainly find the characters appealing. Personally, as someone who loves animals, I was immediately captured by the synopsis, and I was glad I read this novel. As I said, it is unique, and I love finding stories like this. They are a breath of fresh air in the genre.

If you get the chance to read High Clowder Cats do it. It is a fascinating story with great characters and amazing writing. A real page-turner. Great for people of all ages and even those who don’t like the fantasy genre. This story has a meaning beyond just being an entertaining story, which is why I would also encourage people to add High Clowder Cats to their TBR (To-Be-Read) lists. I know this is a novel that I will be revisiting, and I hope to read more of Ruby Knight´s in the future.

[Mary Maciejewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

High Clowder Cats: Book One, by Ruby Knight, is a futuristic fantasy story about good fighting against evil. With good winning, of course. It’s also the story of Bushytail, a misfit cat caught up in a magical world and a strong desire to do the right thing. Bushytail is an intelligent, determined leader of his clan. Along with his ever-loyal friend and mentor, Bristle, who convinced Bushytail to form his own clan of tomcats, stands against evil for their clan. In addition, though the story’s focus and setting are in Australia, the story is practical for any part of the world.

Knight’s writing style is quick-paced, yet not too fast for young readers to catch on. She chose her words carefully, with young children in mind. And she created marvelous characters children would love. The persona of the cat watcher was a heart-tugging character. His death helps teach children about dealing with death. And the cat watcher’s death devastated Bushytail. The impact of his death also caused Bushytail to leave the territory to seek another. In fact, that’s when he met Bristle, his new companion for the journey.

Bushytail demonstrates other human traits as well. For example, like any new parent, he becomes anxious and worries about the arrival of his kittens. He will dote over them, but must also protect them at all costs. At this same time, as a new protective father, he senses an urgency to be a warrior over the evil threatening the clan.

High Clowder Cats: Book One, by Ruby Knight, is a page-turner. The reader experiences Bushytail’s growth as he overcomes his fears, which is a great example for children. The characters are realistic and delightful. This is also a story adults would enjoy as well. Suspense is built on the journey. I give this intriguing and endearing story 5 out of 5 stars.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

High Clowder Cats is a magical story surrounding groups of feral cats for young teens written by Ruby Knight. In this book, we follow the main cat, Bushytail, who goes on a long and treacherous journey to find his own territory and his own life. It is during his life journey he meets many different cats. Through it all, Bushytail remains steadfast in his ways of honor and fairness. His journey starts with a group of toms who are clowderless, moving on to a clowder running into old acquaintances. Bushytail’s story is a story of woe, tragedy, triumph, and love.

I was not sure what to expect from a book about talking cats who behave very much like humans. The clowders and clowderless alike are reminiscent of communities of people, with the clowderless being more akin to those who have community but no real rules or structure. While this book is geared toward those who are younger, as the author wrote it specifically for a student, I think anyone of that age and older could enjoy this book.

I was not ready for the comparisons to humans that these feral cats gave. It was a surprisingly deep and emotional book too, with a lot of heart and depth. I loved the story of Bushytail and his triumph over the obstacles in his life. It showed a true story of perseverance. His love and care toward other toms and other ferals was highly present in the book. It was almost like you forgot that you were reading a book about cats. Knight perfectly personified these animals in the story, giving it a hero, a villain, and so much true emotion. Overall, the book was hard to put down and thoroughly enjoyable. I think this would be a great book for animal lovers but also for those who enjoy complex and high emotion and action.

[Marina Lujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby Knight's High Clowder Cats is a delightful read that cat lovers will appreciate. The novel's protagonist, Bushytail, is a cat on a mission to find a new home, free from the hustle and bustle of human society. He embarks on a perilous journey that leads him to join forces with a band of cats, navigating through various challenges that test their courage and loyalty.

Knight's writing style is highly engaging, and she creates a vibrant and vivid world that readers will find captivating. The author does an excellent job of developing her characters, and their unique personalities make them easy to connect with. As the story progresses, the reader is drawn into the cat’s fight for survival, and the unexpected twists and turns keep the plot exciting.

Divided into 28 short chapters, the book is well-structured, and the pacing is perfect, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The lessons on friendship, teamwork, and leadership that the cats learn along the way are valuable and provide meaningful takeaways.

High Clowder Cats is an outstanding fantasy novel that exceeded my expectations. It is a heartwarming story that will leave readers feeling good about the world and those in it. I highly recommend it to readers of all ages, and it deserves a full 5-star rating.

[D.M. Sonntag · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this young adult novel, we follow Bushytail, an orange tomcat whose search for belonging evolves into a deeper allegory about faith, leadership, and morality. I loved this tale and was quickly immersed, often forgetting it wasn’t about humans. The writing is eloquent and clean, with a vocabulary that challenges readers to learn new words and creative workarounds for profanity. I saw The Stone as symbolizing religion, with Bushytail representing a Moses-like figure, and the story also reminded me of "The Lion King," if Simba had stayed under Scar’s reign. My main critique is that some events felt out of order and key moments were told rather than shown. Still, the world-building and wisdom woven into the whiskers are remarkable. I recommend it to readers who enjoy books like "The Giver" or "Animal Farm."

You can read my full review on OnlineBookClub.org

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It's a wonderful fantasy story about a feral cat colony that is full of excitement, adventure and danger. It hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. This book is a *Must Read* for cat lovers.
I received a complimentary copy from BooksGoSocial and Ruby Knight via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Marsha Ronquist · Rating 4 out of 5]

clowders.

I do not know why or how this word came to be the name for a group of cats. Although the story is about cats, it could easily be about humans. The struggles, the fears, and the pain of living, but also the joys and pleasures that can be found in living. Life, good, bad, happy and sad. Live it to its fullest.

[Kimberly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wrong!! I thought this would be a great book for kids. I read to chapter 3. That did it for me. I would not recommend this for kids.

It will break their little hearts.

(I received the ARC for free. This is an honest review.)

[Poth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming, quick read. Excited for book two!

A charming tale fit for a teenage audience. The prose was simple to understand, and engaging. Fast-paced story made for a quick, easy read, with good morals and healthy lessons sprinkled in along the way.

[Hannah (The Book Snek) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I should have liked this more but I just feel like cats should be sillier than they are in this world. It's 50% a me problem and 50% a Turnip problem.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting story from a cat’s point of view

The journeys of a feral cat and his search for a home. Definitely has some unexpected twists, especially from a spiritual perspective.

[Rosemary Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book

Well-written and exciting storyline. I love the cats and an definitely very excited to read the rest of this series.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book, fans of the Warriors series will love it too :)
I look forward to reading the second book in the series!
Meowsers xx