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Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
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100 reviews
July 15,2025
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Adorable little book. The thing I truly love about children's books, and by extension, a great many MG (Middle Grade) stories, is that they don't typically spend as much time as YA (Young Adult) or adult stories do in explaining themselves. For example, let's say the kittens were born with wings. How did that happen? Who really cares? We just move on. And I firmly believe that this is incredibly important. Because in these types of stories, the how or the why isn't the main point of the story. It's about the adventure, the emotions, and the imagination that the story can spark in the reader. Children and MG readers are often more open to accepting the奇幻 and the unexpected without demanding a detailed explanation. This allows the story to flow more freely and engage the reader's mind in a different way. It's a wonderful aspect of these types of books that makes them so special and captivating.

July 15,2025
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I never realized that Le Guin wrote for children.

This is a truly sweet little tale. There are four kittens born with wings, and their mama is initially unsure of what to do about it. However, she then realizes that it is a gift from heaven. With their wings, they can escape the dirty city alley where they are trapped and seek a better life.

And that's precisely what the kittens do. They encounter kind hands in the form of two nice children. I am extremely excited to read the rest of the series to discover where their lives will lead from here.

I absolutely adore her description of the owl. She writes, "It took a while for the Owl to understand this. Owl is not a quick thinker. She is a long thinker." This description adds a touch of charm and uniqueness to the story, making it even more engaging and delightful.

I can't wait to see what other adventures and surprises await the kittens in the upcoming books of the series.
July 15,2025
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A Sweet Children's Story

A sweet children's story is a wonderful thing. It has the power to transport young minds to magical worlds, filled with excitement and adventure. It doesn't have to be insipid or speak down to the audience. In fact, a great children's story can engage and delight both kids and adults alike.



What makes a children's story truly special is the author's ability to capture the essence of childhood. They understand the hopes, dreams, and fears of their young readers and can create characters and situations that resonate with them on a deep level.



Given the author's talent and creativity, it's not surprising that this particular children's story is a gem. It weaves a tale that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression on all who read it.

July 15,2025
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A group of kittens, each born with wings, are sent away by their mother. This is because their city neighborhood is deteriorating.

At the very beginning, they encounter difficulties in locating a place where they are warmly welcomed. However, their fortune changes when they meet two friendly children. These children make a promise to take good care of them and keep their existence a secret.

I truly don't know how I managed to miss this series during my childhood. Back in elementary school, I was completely obsessed with cats. Undoubtedly, this story would have been an immediate favorite for me at that time. Even though my obsession with cats has diminished a little and I am now decades away from my elementary days, I still find it to be a delightfully cute story. It is a charming tale of creatures that are easily vulnerable to greed or hate, yet they manage to find someone who loves them unconditionally. This is an excellent choice for reluctant readers who have a passion for cats. After all, it is a very short story and is also filled with illustrations, making it easily approachable and great fun to read.

Notes on content: There are no language issues. There is no sexual content. One cat gets scratched by an owl but eventually turns out to be okay.
July 15,2025
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When we heard the heart-wrenching news that Ursula K Le Guin had passed away, our hearts sank.

But then, we found solace in the wonderful world of her works. For me, that meant reaching for the beloved Earthsea series and its sequels.

However, we also wanted our young lads, who were still a bit too young for those more complex tales, to experience the magic of this phenomenal author. So, we chose Catwings.

Pulled gently from the shelf, we began to introduce our small folk to Le Guin's incredibly canny and insightful writing.

The story of the catwings, with their unique abilities and adventures, captured the imaginations of our little ones.

I wholeheartedly suggest that if you have small folk in your life, or if you simply have a deep love for cats, you should make the same choice.

Let the enchanting words of Ursula K Le Guin transport you and your loved ones to a world of wonder and imagination.

July 15,2025
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Yeah,

in the real world, it is simply impossible for a litter of kittens to be born with four normal limbs and two wings. Genetics operate within a specific framework, and such a combination is highly unlikely to occur naturally.

However, when it comes to a story about kittens with wings, that's an entirely different matter. It's an awesome and imaginative concept that allows our minds to soar beyond the boundaries of reality.

Sometimes, it's okay to let reality take a nap and embrace the奇幻 and the extraordinary in the world of fiction. It gives us a break from the ordinary and allows us to explore new and exciting possibilities. So, while we know that winged kittens don't exist in the real world, we can still enjoy the idea of them in a story and let our imaginations run wild.
July 15,2025
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Cute purry cats with wings and Ursula Le Guin -- back in 1988, this combination did not really work for me.

I was in awe of Le Guin's mind-expanding stories and her rich humane wisdom. So, I didn't feel comfortable with her as the writer of what is, quite frankly, a rather simplistic children's book.

However, parenthood changes many things. I've now discovered that its very simplicity makes this an excellent read aloud book.

True, it's not particularly deep, but the fineness of the prose shines through if you give it a chance.

The slower pace of reading aloud makes it easier to appreciate.

And the kittens' wings are furry, which adds to the charm of the story.

As a parent, I now see the value in this seemingly simple book. It can engage children's imaginations and bring a smile to their faces.

Le Guin's writing, even in this more straightforward work, still has its own unique appeal.

So, while my initial impression was different, I now find myself enjoying this book and sharing it with my children.

It's a reminder that sometimes, we need to look at things from a different perspective to truly appreciate them.
July 15,2025
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The first in the series of these early reader books, which seem to be those 'first chapter' books, is truly a delight.

The story is quick to read, making it perfect for young readers who are just beginning to explore the world of chapter books.

Schindler's illustrations are absolutely gorgeous, adding a visual dimension to the story that brings it to life.

As always, the reader is treated to some wonderful prose by Le Guin. Her writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, and it would be wrong to deny the children reader a chance to explore and enjoy her utterly wonderful mastery of word and wisdom.

Plus, it has flying cats! This unique and charming element adds an extra layer of fun and excitement to the story, making it even more appealing to young readers.

Overall, this early reader book is a must-read for any child who loves adventure, magic, and beautiful illustrations.
July 15,2025
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I have a particular interest in reading children's books under specific conditions.

First of all, if the children's book is written by Ursula K. le Guin, I am highly likely to pick it up and start reading. Her works are known for their creativity, depth, and ability to engage readers of all ages.

Secondly, if the book is about cats, that would also be a great draw for me. Cats have always been a fascinating and beloved subject in literature. Their mysterious and independent nature makes for interesting stories and characters.

So, when I come across a children's book that meets both of these criteria - being by Ursula K. le Guin and about cats - I will毫不犹豫地 read it. I believe that such a book would combine the author's unique writing style with the charm of cats, creating a wonderful reading experience for me.
July 15,2025
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2019 bk 409.

In my reading history, there was a period when I was deeply immersed in the works of Ursula K. LeGuin. However, I don't recall reading Catwings during that time.

Thank you to my Goodreads friend who introduced these four charming children's books to me. Catwings are four little kittens who, due to some unknown genetic or environmental factor, are born with wings.

Their mother has safeguarded them throughout infancy from mean dogs, other cats, and the problems of the city. But now, it's time for her to mate again, and for the catwings to leave home.

They stay together and head to the country, where they encounter difficulties with other wild animals and in finding a suitable home.

This is a sweet book, and I'm eagerly looking forward to the next one in the series.

I'm curious to see what adventures the catwings will have and how they will overcome the challenges that come their way.

The story has captured my imagination, and I can't wait to continue following the journey of these adorable winged kittens.

July 15,2025
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It's a truly remarkable book about cats.

These are not ordinary cats, mind you. They have wings, which adds an element of magic and wonder to the story.

The author, Ursula Le Guin, has crafted a tale that is both enchanting and engaging.

Even though I'm approximately 24 years older than its intended target audience, I found myself completely captivated by it.

The book takes you on a journey through a world where cats with wings exist, and you get to experience their adventures and the unique challenges they face.

Le Guin's writing is so vivid and descriptive that you can almost picture the cats soaring through the sky with their beautiful wings.

It's a book that reminds us that age doesn't matter when it comes to enjoying a good story.

Whether you're young or old, this book about cats with wings is sure to delight and inspire you.

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