Stray

Named Pufftail by the humans he claims to be independent of, an old tomcat sits in the sunshine and tells his life story to his grandson. From the beginning, Pufftail's happiness is destroyed by human cruelty: his brother is killed when both are thrown from a moving vehicle, Pufftail is used in a series of sadistic laboratory tests until rescued by animal-rights activists, and the love of his life is hit by a car. There are some good ``two-footers,'' but it is clear that these few cannot make up for the misery inflicted on cats by the majority of humans. Pufftail's voice--salty and matter-of-fact--provides a solid foundation for the author's somewhat obvious opinions about most pet owners. An animal story in the tradition of Black Beauty , this novel offers much for the young reader. Ages 12-up. (Sept.)