The author was inspired to write this novel by the dilemma of being both a cat lover and passionate about the preservation of Australia’s endangered species.
The story is told through the eyes of Kate, a young girl in her final year at primary school, who adores her cat Bunyip, her loved companion who comforts her as only a cat can. She lives with her Dad and her young brother Shane in Adelaide but they go up to the Hills to visit their grandparents every weekend and it is there that she becomes aware of wildlife preservation issues through her growing friendship with Kristie, whose parents have recently taken over the Mala wildlife sanctuary. Kristie’s Dad is particularly fierce against cats and threatens to shoot any he finds on sanctuary land.
An added complication for Kate is her constant concern for Shane who is insecure, unhappy, and prone to tantrums since their Mum went away to Sydney four years ago to become a fashion designer. Matters come to a head when Shane, in a jealous rage decides to punish Kate in a way that highlights the dangers of domestic cats out in the wild.
This story was first published in 1994 and Elizabeth Hutchins hasn’t updated the facts and statistics that Kate gathers for her assignment on the cat problem. She writes that current information can easily be found online and facts and figures can vary from state to state. She acknowledges that some progress has been made since the book was published but there is a long way to go.
This is a well told tale of family and friendship that brings a spotlight on an issue that is still relevant today. All readers who love animals, both domestic and wild, will enjoy Kate’s journey of discovery, and perhaps be prompted to make some decisions about their own house cats.
The author was inspired to write this novel by the dilemma of being both a cat lover and passionate about the preservation of Australia’s endangered species.
