Catlantis

Translated from the Russian and set in modern-day Moscow, this compact, fable-like tale%E2%80%94clearly inspired by Plato's story of the lost island of Atlantis%E2%80%94takes readers to an ancient utopia for the feline breed: Catlantis. The classic quest narrative mixes magical elements with quotidian realism: a ginger-colored cat named Baguette wants to marry the striped Purriana, but her great-great-grandmother, an oracle, commands him to carry out a heroic feat before he can do so. She tells the couple about the isle of Catlantis and their noble heritage, then sends Baguette on a dangerous journey back in time to retrieve the Catlantic flower that will restore nine lives to every cat. Filled with wordplay ("purrenade," "Pussiedon," "meowbra-catabra"), rivalries, and evil and endearing characters human and feline alike, this lighthearted love story/adventure never languishes; Klimowski's stark black-and-white drawings pair well with the graceful text. Moving steadily along to a cleverly surprising ending, the book is an appealing read for animal lovers of all ages. Ages 8%E2%80%9312. (Sept.)