Monday, March 07, 2011

Book Recommendation- Plain Kate

Plain Kate by Erin Bow was recommended to me by one of the ladies in my writing group. I purchased it on my Kindle but now I wish I had a real live paper copy because I would lend it to everyone. Seriously.
Plain Kate is a carver in her village and times are hard. There is sleeping death creeping down the river and people are suspicious of witches and quick to accuse people of witchcraft.
Kate's father dies leaving her completely alone. She survives on her own talents in the village for awhile before leaving her village after making an exchange with a magician.
Kate is accompanied on her journey by a talking cat named Taggle. Since I have a cat who meows in syllables, for example "meow, meow, meow, meow" sounds like "Where have you been", I can completely appreciate a book with a talking cat companion.
The writing in this book is beautiful and the story telling is amazing. Throughout the book I found myself sad for Kate's loneliness, amazed by Kate's world, scared for Kate and hopeful for Kate.
I made the mistake of finishing this book while on the elliptical at the gym. I don't recommend this because I found myself trying not to cry at the end of the book. I recommend that readers finish this book at home with a box of tissues and a kitty that reminds you of Taggle by your side.



3 comments:

Tracey Neithercott said...

I've heard this book is great. Your review reminds me I need to buy this the next time I'm a the bookstore. (I'm on a self-imposed book budget right now.)

Oh, and I'm impressed you can run on the elliptical at the same time as reading. That requires major coordination!

Hannah said...

Oooh, I've heard a lot of good things about this book. Can't wait to read it!

BTW, don't forget to check the winners post on our blog! ;) http://paperhangover.blogspot.com/

Christina Rodriguez said...

Do I... do I REALLY want to read a book with an animal character that's certain to make me cry? I'll have to harden myself up a big before I start this book.