Cat Between Two Worlds

Author: Lesley Renton
Genre: Children

To Price Evans, who has just moved into the quaint old house that was his grandmother’s childhood home, Sinbad looks much like any ordinary, long-haired ginger cat—the pampered and sole companion of Mr. Murphy, the cantankerous old man living next door. Little does anyone know that Sinbad lives in our world only when he isn’t busy (stirring up rebellion) in his real home: the magical Land of Tolk. There are signs though, that everything is not as it seems—like the two incredibly life-like wooden dwarfs that appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, in the small space between the Evans’ property and Mr. Murphy’s garage. When Price stumbles upon the gateway between these two very different worlds, he learns the truth about Sinbad and his nefarious plot to bring the conveniences of human technology (and pampering) to the peaceful and immortal inhabitants of Tolk, heedless of the impact of such potentially corrupting influences.

Price finds himself in the midst of a civil uprising, with the fate of Tolk hanging in the balance. What role will he play in exposing Sinbad as a liar and a fraud? Can the peace-loving Tolks expel the rebel forces before they destroy their way of life and their very world?

Even though he is an outsider, it is clear to Price that whatever happens next will determine the fate of the Land of Tolk and all of its inhabitants.

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Reviewer: Crystal P.

I did the whole "judge a book by it's cover" thing, to be honest. The cover is so unique and I'm always amazed people can draw so good. Like, how can people detail grass that good? In this case, it was really worth it to choose this title. I was a little nervous when I first started it, thinking I might not like it. I ended up being surprised, and found myself reading this late into the night (midnight and I'm not ashamed of it). I got a Chronicles of Narnia feel from the whole book, and that's not a bad thing. Like, a secret gate to the Land of Tolk with wonderful creatures? Awesome! 

Price was pretty much your average boy. He actually reminds me of my brothers, always wanting to build forts and use their imagination. It's not surprising that he would take an interest in the small place between his yard and Mr Murphy's. Once he discovered it wasn't what he thought it was, then the story got interesting. Especially when his little pine-cone doll, Octaruse Pinecone (O.P), came to life. Honestly, that little guy was my favorite and he made the most hilarious responses!

I thought it was exciting to have a fairy as a main character. Freddy was so adorable and so innocent. She really couldn't comprehend why Price would want to return to the outside world instead of staying, but that just made her much more delightful. Call me weird, but for a while, I thought she was falling in love with Price.

I'm not really sure why Sinbad wanted to send citizens of Tolk into the outside world. That part didn't really make sense to me, especially once he discovered certain creatures couldn't survive outside of Tolk. Man, though. It's so hard not to spoil anything, but what a lazy cat. He really wanted to bring technology to make their lives "easier". Meh, that's not something you need, silly cat. You need to survive on your instincts.

I guessed some things that were going to happen, such as something with Price's grandmother, but the ending just about had me cry (I teared up!). I was really sad to see the gate to Tolk closed forever. I think it'd be fun to see a sequel, maybe with Price's future kids or something. I don't know, I just want to go back to TolK! 

This book is full of excitement and danger, and is something I'd consider to be family-friendly. There is some violence I would consider minor, such as hitting creatures or pushing. Overall, Cat Between Two Worlds is something I would be willing to hand to my little sister, especially since she is interested in reading this.

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Reviewer: Mary Hosmar

When eleven year old Price Evans moves from the big city to a small town, he is delighted to discover a space between his parents’ and his neighbour’s houses which would make a perfect place to make a hide-away. His grumpy neighbour, however, makes it clear that such an idea is totally impossible and promises Price dire consequences should he wander onto his property. His sinister-looking cat seems to agree with that.

Price, of course, cannot stay away and as he begins to investigate, strange things happen. A previously locked gate is mysteriously left open; a note buried in the leaves invites Price to visit; and a well-kept German shepherd seems to be inviting Price to follow him.

What Price eventually discovers and experiences makes a delightful read for children of all ages. The adventures in a magical kingdom will both challenge and entertain the reader.

Renton builds her characters and her world carefully. It’s not difficult to believe animals can talk and elves exist. The make-believe world of Tolk is realistic and inviting. The writing moves the story along, although at times, I wished it would move more quickly.

I received this book in return for an honest, unbiased review.

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