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Cat Diaries: Secret Writings of the MEOW Society
An irresistible collection of short stories for cat lovers. At the annual gathering of the MEOW society, cats of all kinds convene to share their stories and those of their ancestors. Chico, the smallest cat in the world, recounts stopping a crime. The Pirate Cat tells of the fateful day when he discovered a treasure while hunting for mice. And Georgio shares his delectable―and sometimes surprising―recipes. Cat Diaries is a winning companion to Dog Diaries , also by Betsy Byars and her daughters Betsy Duffy and Laurie Myers. With gorgeous black-and-white illustrations by Erik Brooks, animal lovers and reluctant readers will be wooed by the charm, strength, and wit of these feline friends.
80 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
34 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Betsy Byars
131 books157 followersBetsy Byars was an American author of children's books. She wrote over sixty books for young people. Her first novel was published in 1962. Her novel Summer of the Swans won the 1971 Newbery Medal. She also received a National Book Award for Young People's Literature for The Night Swimmers and an Edgar Award for Wanted ... Mud Blossom!!
Daughters Betsy Duffey and Laurie Myers are also writers.
Daughters Betsy Duffey and Laurie Myers are also writers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
November 3, 2010
Who knew that cats secretly write diaries, and have been doing so for centuries? My favorite diary entry was "Miu, the Great Cat of Egypt". The picture of Miu with the dopey-looking dog is so funny. I also liked "Go-Go Goes Bananas," in which a well-meaning author takes his cat along to a book signing, with disastrous results. And, of course, "Library Cat". A humorous collection of cat tales that really should be read aloud to your cat (as I did!). I hope Betsy Byars writes another book of these stories.
December 20, 2011
Collection of short stories written from the perspective of a society of cats who write. Has great vocabulary and high interest for progressing readers. Loved the messages about why we write--to tell stories of our experiences, and how we benefit from writing and sharing as a community.
January 10, 2021
A great book for early readers! And if you like CATS. . .it's a book of many adventures with sundry cats!
I gave this book a 5 star rating because it is easy enough to read even for early readers and yet tells many diverse stories. These adventures start with an enormous cat enclave. At the enclave stories, written by cats themselves, are read aloud to the audience of cats, of course. Some stories are short and simple. Other's are stories to hear around a warm fire with friends near. All the tales take us on a mind trip to experience happenings from another mind, written by their own hand...err...paw. Because all the stories are written by cats themselves. The Cat enclave not only loves to hear adventures read aloud, but they like to encourage other cats to write their stories down for the future generations.
Of course, as people of learning, (ahem) we see the parallels to the human experience. But the written accounts, by catspaw as it were,include details of historical value like the tale of how the Egyptians defeated their foes in a great battle with the help of -cats! This is a piece of true history.
Or take the well known tale of Blackbeard, the pirate. He had a cat on his ship as most seafaring men did, in those days. But how that cat led him and his cronies to treasure is a little known story.
I loved the analogy between human and cat world. I did however have a touch of trouble with the the timeline compressing all of the ancient Egyptian history into a cat living in ancient times but taking a walk past all the Egyptian monuments known by man today, which are surely from different dynasties. The cat of the battle mentioned earlier could not have been the cat of the last dynasty. But I'm nitpicking a bit, because as I said this book is suitable to early readers who are not like to notice the discrepancy or compression of history yet. And it's A great way to expose kids to ancient Egyptian history in a early taste at that big apple.
I gave this book a 5 star rating because it is easy enough to read even for early readers and yet tells many diverse stories. These adventures start with an enormous cat enclave. At the enclave stories, written by cats themselves, are read aloud to the audience of cats, of course. Some stories are short and simple. Other's are stories to hear around a warm fire with friends near. All the tales take us on a mind trip to experience happenings from another mind, written by their own hand...err...paw. Because all the stories are written by cats themselves. The Cat enclave not only loves to hear adventures read aloud, but they like to encourage other cats to write their stories down for the future generations.
Of course, as people of learning, (ahem) we see the parallels to the human experience. But the written accounts, by catspaw as it were,include details of historical value like the tale of how the Egyptians defeated their foes in a great battle with the help of -cats! This is a piece of true history.
Or take the well known tale of Blackbeard, the pirate. He had a cat on his ship as most seafaring men did, in those days. But how that cat led him and his cronies to treasure is a little known story.
I loved the analogy between human and cat world. I did however have a touch of trouble with the the timeline compressing all of the ancient Egyptian history into a cat living in ancient times but taking a walk past all the Egyptian monuments known by man today, which are surely from different dynasties. The cat of the battle mentioned earlier could not have been the cat of the last dynasty. But I'm nitpicking a bit, because as I said this book is suitable to early readers who are not like to notice the discrepancy or compression of history yet. And it's A great way to expose kids to ancient Egyptian history in a early taste at that big apple.
September 22, 2018
Memories Expressed in Our Writing (MEOW) is a collection of stories and observations through the eyes of cats. Who knew that an animal that is so often seen as cool, calm and collected is capable of being so rowdy and funny too.
The story of the Library Cat is a particularly wonderful homage to the power of stories and reading and what they can help us do and learn.
In my opinion this book and Dog Diaries: Secret Writings of the WOOF Society would be great launches for writing by children as well.
The story of the Library Cat is a particularly wonderful homage to the power of stories and reading and what they can help us do and learn.
In my opinion this book and Dog Diaries: Secret Writings of the WOOF Society would be great launches for writing by children as well.
October 12, 2022
Cat Diaries: Secret Writings of the Meow Society is a nice and fun set of cat stories. I bought the paperback of the book to keep on my bookshelf and I really liked the book. I liked the pictures in the book too.
November 20, 2023
accidentally found it on libby, and GUESS WHAT? IM OBSESSED! This is such a FUN&CUTE book i've ever read this year. and also, never knew that cats are the world's best writersHAHAHA >___<
a solid 5 STARS from meee
a solid 5 STARS from meee
August 27, 2017
This was a fun book, full of short stories, told from the perspective of cats. Did you know that cats are the world's best writers? They think so.
August 14, 2018
The book contains the stories of cats from MEOW society. The stories are very warm. I liked each of them very much. I loved the illustrations, too! I recommend this book to all cat lovers!
October 29, 2018
THis book was awesome. Fun and engaging for my daughter and myself. Excitement and humour. A lovely collection of stories.
May 14, 2020
The story are so cute
October 6, 2023
Super cute book for young children starting on chapter books.
December 31, 2023
Meh, really 2-3* I was a bit disappointed, but it is a children's book. Read before giving to my niece.
August 9, 2022
This is definitely one series of books that I read out of order but that is okay since it doesn't take away from the reader's experience to do so while only one pair of characters appears in both books as they each tell opposite sides of the same story.
Cat Diaries: Secret Writings of the MEOW Society and Dog Diaries: Secret Writings of the WOOF Society are collections of short stories that focus on the titular animal of the series. In each the gathering of cats or dogs appear together to go over diaries, story-telling or other recorded means to pass on these stories about past and present members of the species thus reminding all who are gathered just what it means to be to be either a cat or dog.
These short stories are provided as different chapters throughout the book thus allowing readers to easily separate the book out such as over couple days or even for bedtime stories. At the same time there are some included illustrations to help the stories but I cannot say I was a fan of them.
All in all they were rather decent and fun to read while quick. For kids who like cats and dogs this will make for a great fictional read while you can discuss with them which book they prefer.
Cat Diaries: Secret Writings of the MEOW Society and Dog Diaries: Secret Writings of the WOOF Society are collections of short stories that focus on the titular animal of the series. In each the gathering of cats or dogs appear together to go over diaries, story-telling or other recorded means to pass on these stories about past and present members of the species thus reminding all who are gathered just what it means to be to be either a cat or dog.
These short stories are provided as different chapters throughout the book thus allowing readers to easily separate the book out such as over couple days or even for bedtime stories. At the same time there are some included illustrations to help the stories but I cannot say I was a fan of them.
All in all they were rather decent and fun to read while quick. For kids who like cats and dogs this will make for a great fictional read while you can discuss with them which book they prefer.
January 25, 2012
This book was a very positive surprise for me. Only eighty pages in length, written in comparatively large font and with a high illustrations-to-text ratio, I wasn't expecting such a solidly crafted story, one that ranks up there with some of the best highlights from Betsy Byars's body of work. The short stories that make up this book are very brief, averaging only a few pages apiece, but nearly all of them contain unexpected twists and sparkle with effervescent wit, and the characters are all fully developed even with such a short space in which to get to know them.
As the literate cats of the world gather for their annual MEOW (Memories Expressed in Our Writing) meeting, the air buzzes with anticipation of the stories that are to be read. Cats throughout history have kept diaries of their escapades, it seems, and the annual MEOW meeting provides the opportunity for cats to get together and hear the stories as a group. There's the story of the library cat, who after searching for so long found a home within the cozy walls of a local library, and then proved that she belonged by catching a pesky mouse that had been running free in the building; there's Chico, the "smallest cat in the world", who proves that even the tiniest creature can make a major difference if he or she can think clearly; then we have the story of an old cat living out his golden years in a quiet house, as he basks in the sunshine and dreams of his favorite adventures from when he was young. One can't forget about the pirate Blackbeard's cat, either, who locates a hoard of treasure where none of the pirates would have thought to check. And, most significantly, there's the tale of Rama the gypsy cat, who will be fondly remembered by loyal fans of Betsy Byars from her own full-length novel.
The stories are fresh and surprisingly deep, serving reminder that Betsy Byars has a Newbery Medal to her credit and knows what it takes to stir up a variety of powerful feelings in her readers. At this late stage of her career the intent of her writing is still vibrant and ambitious, even in a project as low-key as this one. I've mentioned in other reviews of her stories how remarkable her consistency as a writer is, and Cat Diaries is further proof of that assertion; no matter what the story idea may be, Betsy Byars always executes it well, which is why she is one of my favorite authors.
Perhaps the most meaningful section of Cat Diaries comes in the final chapter (knowing Betsy Byars, I had a feeling it would), when the elderly cat named Sage steps forward to make the closing remarks to that year's edition of the MEOW gathering. All of the cats hold Sage in deep regard for the long life she has lived and the significant historical events that she has witnessed, and they listen reverently when she speaks. Sage reminds them of the importance of telling their stories, because in each other's stories we find pieces of our own, and so we never forget how closely the universal ties of emotion bind us. Whether cat or human, the telling of our stories is what allows others to understand us as real human beings, and to realize that the narrative of individual lives is just as important as the bigger story of our society as a whole. I get the feeling that Betsy Byars is speaking from the fount of her own considerable wisdom through Sage as she says these things, and also as the elderly cat tells the members of MEOW that she knows more great stories are just waiting to be written, and that it is her hope simply to still be there to listen to them alongside everyone else when they are read. The poignancy of the moment is heartfelt, and gives an extra dimension of feeling to what had already been an excellent book.
If this is what we get when Betsy Byars teams up with her two daughters to write a book, then I welcome additional projects that call for their partnership in the future. There was something about this book that I absolutely loved, and I would in all likelihood give it the full three stars. I recommend Cat Diaries to anyone who has loved the writing of Betsy Byars, likes reading smart stories about pets, or is a fan of good literature in general.
As the literate cats of the world gather for their annual MEOW (Memories Expressed in Our Writing) meeting, the air buzzes with anticipation of the stories that are to be read. Cats throughout history have kept diaries of their escapades, it seems, and the annual MEOW meeting provides the opportunity for cats to get together and hear the stories as a group. There's the story of the library cat, who after searching for so long found a home within the cozy walls of a local library, and then proved that she belonged by catching a pesky mouse that had been running free in the building; there's Chico, the "smallest cat in the world", who proves that even the tiniest creature can make a major difference if he or she can think clearly; then we have the story of an old cat living out his golden years in a quiet house, as he basks in the sunshine and dreams of his favorite adventures from when he was young. One can't forget about the pirate Blackbeard's cat, either, who locates a hoard of treasure where none of the pirates would have thought to check. And, most significantly, there's the tale of Rama the gypsy cat, who will be fondly remembered by loyal fans of Betsy Byars from her own full-length novel.
The stories are fresh and surprisingly deep, serving reminder that Betsy Byars has a Newbery Medal to her credit and knows what it takes to stir up a variety of powerful feelings in her readers. At this late stage of her career the intent of her writing is still vibrant and ambitious, even in a project as low-key as this one. I've mentioned in other reviews of her stories how remarkable her consistency as a writer is, and Cat Diaries is further proof of that assertion; no matter what the story idea may be, Betsy Byars always executes it well, which is why she is one of my favorite authors.
Perhaps the most meaningful section of Cat Diaries comes in the final chapter (knowing Betsy Byars, I had a feeling it would), when the elderly cat named Sage steps forward to make the closing remarks to that year's edition of the MEOW gathering. All of the cats hold Sage in deep regard for the long life she has lived and the significant historical events that she has witnessed, and they listen reverently when she speaks. Sage reminds them of the importance of telling their stories, because in each other's stories we find pieces of our own, and so we never forget how closely the universal ties of emotion bind us. Whether cat or human, the telling of our stories is what allows others to understand us as real human beings, and to realize that the narrative of individual lives is just as important as the bigger story of our society as a whole. I get the feeling that Betsy Byars is speaking from the fount of her own considerable wisdom through Sage as she says these things, and also as the elderly cat tells the members of MEOW that she knows more great stories are just waiting to be written, and that it is her hope simply to still be there to listen to them alongside everyone else when they are read. The poignancy of the moment is heartfelt, and gives an extra dimension of feeling to what had already been an excellent book.
If this is what we get when Betsy Byars teams up with her two daughters to write a book, then I welcome additional projects that call for their partnership in the future. There was something about this book that I absolutely loved, and I would in all likelihood give it the full three stars. I recommend Cat Diaries to anyone who has loved the writing of Betsy Byars, likes reading smart stories about pets, or is a fan of good literature in general.
December 26, 2016
The feline members of the Meow (Memories Expressed in Our Writing) Society, meet to share stories of their exploits and those of their ancestors. Stories range from “Rama, the Gypsy Cat,” to “Library Cat,” to “Miu: the Great Cat of Egypt.” The short chapters are highlighted by plentiful pen illustrations that add to the stories. There are stories of pirate cats, and chef cats, old cats and famous cats. This is a fun introduction to chapter books for cat lovers.
July 12, 2016
I decided to read Cat Diaries because well, I am a cat lover. I thought the idea of cat's having a diary in the first place sounded rather cute. The premise for children would be funny or so I thought.
Some of the stories were cute and I appreciated the humor in them but most were so-so. Also, I simply could not figure out why the book started with this big convention and then nothing but the reading of the stories by the various cats. It seemed there should have been more action or something. That was a bit disappointing.
However, one thing I did like in the book was near the end. Even though the book is targeted for 2-5 year olds, this seemed something that should have been for the older kids and even adults reading. Essentially, it called for everyone to keep writing their own stories so they are heard and known. After all, MEOW stands for "Memories Expressed in Our Writing", when we write things down, we are creating those memories to share with others about us. That makes me smile.
Overall, not a bad book and I do think young kids would like hearing the stories but it certainly is not for the youngest to read. This is not a picture book and the ages should be adjusted to an emerging reader.
3 stars.
Disclosure: I picked up a copy of this book from my local library. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~M.M. aka Naila Moon
Some of the stories were cute and I appreciated the humor in them but most were so-so. Also, I simply could not figure out why the book started with this big convention and then nothing but the reading of the stories by the various cats. It seemed there should have been more action or something. That was a bit disappointing.
However, one thing I did like in the book was near the end. Even though the book is targeted for 2-5 year olds, this seemed something that should have been for the older kids and even adults reading. Essentially, it called for everyone to keep writing their own stories so they are heard and known. After all, MEOW stands for "Memories Expressed in Our Writing", when we write things down, we are creating those memories to share with others about us. That makes me smile.
Overall, not a bad book and I do think young kids would like hearing the stories but it certainly is not for the youngest to read. This is not a picture book and the ages should be adjusted to an emerging reader.
3 stars.
Disclosure: I picked up a copy of this book from my local library. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~M.M. aka Naila Moon
November 6, 2011
Once a year, cats around the world attend a meeting in an old abandoned theater to listen to stories written by cats. This group is called MEOW which stands for Memories Expressed in Our Writing. The stories are taken from journals that various cats have kept over the years. There are stories from a Gypsy cat, a pirate cat, a library cat and many others. The tales are shared to establish a kinship among cats and to honor the feline race. The cats enjoy the stories immensely and are sad when the night is through, but look forward to when they’ll meet again next year.
This is a solid choice for a second grade reader that likes cats
This is a solid choice for a second grade reader that likes cats
March 10, 2012
It is difficult for me to rate so many different types of books. This is a beginning chapter book, and for its kind, very good. I looked at it to "fatten up" the library's beginning chapter books, and it will, but the vocabulary is carefully chosen and may be above some in reading group.
I enjoyed the anthology of cat stories crossing the centuries. Each cat has its own personality and distinct story. Byars does a clever job of threading the stories together by having cats meets and share their tales.
There is also a dog diaries and I would like to read one of those too.
I enjoyed the anthology of cat stories crossing the centuries. Each cat has its own personality and distinct story. Byars does a clever job of threading the stories together by having cats meets and share their tales.
There is also a dog diaries and I would like to read one of those too.
July 22, 2010
This is a review of the short story, Library Cat, contained in this anthology. A cat finds a home at the public library, inspiration, and self esteem from famous cats throughout literature and history, such as Egyptian cats and the Cheshire cat. Shows how the library serves as an important place to learn about oneself and others in your species through literature and non-fiction.
To read a story about a real life library cat check out the story of Dewey, the Library Cat.
To read a story about a real life library cat check out the story of Dewey, the Library Cat.
January 18, 2012
While a clever approach to cats in various situations and time periods, I felt it was a bit slow to start. Once the chapter "journal entries" began, the variety and unique voice of each appealed. In some ways it reminded me of Van Allsburg's Harris Burdick, in that each chapter might launch a writer into more elaboration, additional journal entries for that particular cat, etc. I must say it is hard for me to feel any cat title tops the CatWings series.
May 4, 2013
This is more of a cat adventure story book. It is told through the perspective of different cats. The words really help you feel the cat’s feeling. On one night every year, cats in the MEOW Society, which stands for "Memories Expressed In Our Writing," gather to read from their diaries, hearing stories of a gypsy cat, a Caribbean pirate cat, a library cat, and many others.
May 3, 2016
My daughter wanted me to read this about three years ago, when she was in elementary school. Now she can't remember it. It was told from the perspective of cats retelling their various adventures at an annual meeting. The premise was cute and a couple of their stories were better than the rest.
May 11, 2010
At a huge annual meeting of the MEOW Memories Expressed in Our Writing) Society, cats listen to diary excerpts, contemporary and historical, of other cats. The readings inspire them after the meeting to reconvene next year with their own great stories.
June 9, 2012
Written well and pretty differently than most kid's chapter books. Didn't love the device of the meeting to start/end the book - that was confusing to read aloud - but otherwise the stories were fun.
July 21, 2010
Great beginning chapter book. It's also good for reluctant readers since each chapter is a complete story, so kids don't feel like they have to read the entire book.
May 4, 2011
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO AWSOME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
August 8, 2011
MEOW-Memories Expressed in Our Writing
August 11, 2011
i liked the book cause it was fun to read it was nice to see what cats would write in their diaries if they had one.
May 20, 2013
Great book!
June 2, 2015
The diary entries by different cats were funny and interesting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews