Seeing a large cat (edition 1997)

Another fine installment in the series. ( )

3.5 stars

My blog post about this book is at this link. ( )

This ninth Amelia Peabody mystery is the first that I have shared from cover to cover with my Other Reader. We both enjoyed it quite well. It continues the formula established by Peters in the earlier books, this time covering (to my irrelevant excitement) the 1903-1904 excavation season in Egypt.

The "large cat" of the title is perhaps Ramses Emerson, who sports whiskers as a surprise at the outset of the novel, and whose relations with the feline members of the household constitute an ongoing subplot. This volume of the series is one in which the younger generation of Emersons gain a significant degree of independence. Their separate perspective is supplied through the device of excerpts from a "Manuscript H," supposedly written by Ramses and containing events he would best know, although referring to him in the third person.

On the other hand, the Cat could equally be Katherine Jones, a new character who seems likely to recur in future stories, and whose cat-like qualities are emphasized in descriptions. The gerundial phrasing of the title alludes to the ancient Egyptian dream-interpretation papyrus that is Peabody's translation project for the season. What indeed is the significance of "seeing a large cat" in one's dream? This book combines entertaining adventure with ominous portents for its protagonists.

Its 1903 and the Emerson Peabody clan is once again planning to excavate in Egypt. Amelia's 'children', Ramses, Nefret and David, are nearly grown and there is the inclusion of a manuscript which gives some insight into their thoughts, feelings and actions - fortunately all three are shaping up nicely to follow in Amelia's and Emerson's footsteps. Sadly Bastet is no more and one of her, seemingly inferior kittens, Sekhmet, is seeking to replace her as Ramses cat. As usual there are shenanigans, the Emersons discover a mummy which isn't as ancient as usual and Ramses becomes the object of the most annoying young woman's affections. Superbly funny and also insightful. ( )

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