Varjak Paw

Story

Varjak Paw is a pampered kitten whose family have lived in the Contessa’s home for generations. One day a mysterious gentleman and two fearsome black cats arrive and Varjak is forced to venture outside the walls and fend for himself in the mean streets below. Luckily the Elder Paw has taught him ‘the Way’, a secret martial art for cats.

Why we chose it

Varjak Paw is a gripping, action-packed adventure for young independent readers.

It follows Varjak on his journey of self-discovery as he battles rival gangs, forges new friendships, dreams the wisdom of his ancestors, and learns the value of truth, loyalty and freedom. S.F. Said’s beautiful and original story is powerfully illustrated by Dave McKean. After reading this you may never look at a cat the same way again.

Where it came from

S. F. Said is a British Muslim children’s author. Born in Lebanon he grew up in London, known as ‘S.F.’ because few of his friends could pronounce his Arabic name.

After university he worked as an arts journalist and speech writer. He set out to write a novel that children would love as much as he had loved Watership Down. The result, after 17 drafts, was Varjak Paw. Varjak is named after Said’s cat and drawn by his favourite comic artist, Dave McKean.

McKean grew up in Berkshire and studied art and design. Well known for his collaborations with Neil Gaiman, he is an award-winning illustrator, photographer, comic book artist, graphic designer, filmmaker and musician.

Where it went next

Varjak Paw has been widely translated. It has inspired a play, an opera and several unofficial animations.

Associated stories

The sequel, The Outlaw Varjak Paw, was the Blue Peter Book of the Year.