Of Cats and Kings

Book excerpt: In the sequel to I & Claudius (Clare de Vries' journey across the USA with her beloved brown Burmese), our heroine travels through Burma and Thailand in search of a replacement for her dearly departed Claudius. In Burma, Clare learns the basic tenets of Buddhism and receives a liberal dousing at the annual Thingyan celebrations, but unfortunately, finds no cats. Instead, she finds nats at Mount Popa, temple-strewn plains in Bagan, and a monastery full of jumping cats in Inle. In Thailand, while veering from nasty dives to luxurious spas, from lecherous cat breeders to ruthless elephant trainers, Clare learns the history of the precious Siamese/Burmese cats and the royals who nurtured them. Finally, she discovers the perfect kittens, hidden in a remote temple. All she has to do is give a donation to the monk who owns them - or so she thinks. Conveyed in Clare de Vries' characteristic witty and lighthearted style, the eye-opening and highly entertaining adventures in Of Cats and Kings will delight travelers and cat lovers alike. Clare de Vries is a freelance journalist and travel writer, and the author of I & Claudius. She lives in London. Praise for I & Claudius: 'Saucy, racy, pleasingly impolite...Think Thelma and Louise, only starring Bridget Jones and Morris the Cat.' - Mademoiselle 'A very enjoyable and unpredictable memoir...Anyone who has ever loved a cat will enjoy this engaging narrative.' - Booklist