Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats

The inspiration for the iconic musical Cats, T. S. Eliot's classic and delightful collection of poetry about cats. These playful verses by a celebrated poet have delighted readers and cat lovers around the world since they were gathered for publication in 1939. As Valerie Eliot has pointed out, there are a number of references to cats in T.S. Eliot's work, but it was to his godchildren, particularly Tom Faber and Alison Tandy, that he first revealed himself as "Old Possum" and for whom he composed his poems. This captivating edition is a curious homage to felines young and old, merry and fierce, small and unmistakably round. Also includes Edward Gorey's charming pen and ink illustrations. Gorey gives a fresh intepretation of "Mr. Mistoffelees," "Growltiger," "The Rum Tum Tugger," "Bustopher Jones," "Skimbleshanks," "Macavity: the Mystery Cat," and a variety of other memorable feline strays all of whom have been brought to life on the stage in the hit musical Cats.   T.S. Eliot's classic poems introduce a cast of characters as memorable as they are mischievous. Iconic Cat Characters: Meet the curious Rum Tum Tugger, the criminal mastermind Macavity, the magical Mr. Mistoffelees, and many more unforgettable felines. Edward Gorey Illustrations: Enjoy the famously charming and slightly mischievous pen-and-ink drawings by celebrated artist Edward Gorey, a perfect pairing for Eliot's verse. A Timeless Family Read-Aloud: Share the delightful rhymes and clever wordplay that have enchanted both children and adults for generations. The Inspiration for CATS: Discover the original poems that became the foundation for one of the world's most beloved stage musicals. Classic Rhyming Verse: Delight in the masterful rhythm and wit of T.S. Eliot, a Nobel Prize-winning poet, at his most playful and accessible.