NINJAS VS. CATS

A lighthearted comparison of two iconic characters.

With deadpan delivery, Vaisberg examines a centuries-long debate regarding “the ultimate question.” Could the query concern the meaning of life? Perhaps the eternal struggle between good and evil? No, this book brings a far more entertaining controversy to light: “Are ninjas better fighters than cats, or are cats the true masters of stealth and agility?” Vaisberg’s clever, comedic comparative study provides plenty of fascinating feline and ninja facts. Cats’ relationship with humans began centuries ago in the Middle East, while ninjas first conducted espionage and infiltration missions in 12th-century Japan. Cats and ninjas have comparable fighting technology: Cats possess sharp, retractable claws, while ninjas use clawlike hand tools called tekko-kagi. Both felines and black-masked fighters rely on special secret languages. Ninjas communicate via kuji-kiri, or hand signals, while cats speak volumes with their tails. Pitting ninjas against felines, Vaisberg tests their abilities in three areas to determine a victor: speed, secrecy, and agility. The outcome may disappoint or delight, but young cat fanciers and ninja nerds alike will find much to enjoy here. The book’s purple-pink color scheme is strangely intriguing, while its stylized design relies heavily on traditional Japanese motifs (wave patterns, flowering branches and rolling clouds). An adorable array of domestic cat breeds is featured, from Cornish rex to “Chonky Cat” and every manner of fluffball in between.

A whimsical concept delivered with a heaping helping of charm.