First novel by this experienced observer of cat behaviour, White Chin is written from the point of view of the cat and the book's strength is that the cat White Chin retains his feline characteristics throughout. The author cleverly avoids the trap of humanising him. The book deals with wildlife in the English countryside red in tooth and claw - illegal and brutal poaching - the problems for the young girl heroine, Kirstie, in coping with and loving all her animals equally and the issues involved in responsible pet ownership. It is funny and sad and moves with a pace. It is exquisitely illustrated throughout in black and white by artist France Bauduin

Age: 8+