Varjak Paw

by SF Said, SF Said, Dave McKean
Varjak Paw cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Children's Fiction
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Paperback • £7.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 824
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780552572293
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2014-03-13
  • Formats: 25
  • Reviews: 4

Varjak Paw is a Mesopotamian Blue kitten who has lived a sheltered life in an old house on a hill. His world changes when his grandfather reveals the Way, a secret martial art for cats, to help him navigate the perils of the city. Varjak must use his newfound skills to survive in a world full of dangerous dogs, rival cat gangs, and the eerie Vanishings that threaten all cats. This adventure story blends action and mystery as Varjak discovers his inner strength and courage. The book is not just an adventure but also an exploration of bravery and self-discovery. Varjak's journey is filled with challenges that test his limits and force him to grow. The Way becomes more than just a set of techniques; it becomes a philosophy that guides him through his trials. The story is rich with vivid descriptions of the city and its inhabitants, creating a vivid and immersive world for readers to explore.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-16
brilliant 5.00

The book is vividly imagined and beautifully illustrated, making it a must-read for middle-grade fans.

This reviewer praises Varjak Paw for its vivid imagination and stunning illustrations by Dave McKean. They consider it a must-read for middle-grade fans, suggesting that the book's imaginative world and beautiful artwork make it a standout choice. The reviewer's enthusiasm is clear, indicating that the book is a delightful and engaging read that will captivate young readers. The overall sentiment is highly positive, with a strong recommendation for the book.

Quick quotes

    Brilliant book! Vividly imagined by SF Said with stunning illustrations by Dave McKean.

    This is a must-read for MG fans.

    The vivid imagination and stunning illustrations make it a standout choice.

Taylor Talks Vegan · 2025-02-07
celebratory 4.50

The story is celebrated for its themes of friendship, loyalty, and difference, making it a unique adventure. The illustrations enhance the narrative, creating a visually engaging experience.

This review highlights Varjak Paw as a modern classic that beautifully explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and embracing differences. The adventure is brought to life through stunning illustrations that add depth to the story. The reviewer appreciates how the book stands out with its unique perspective and engaging narrative, making it a memorable read for both children and adults alike. The combination of text and visuals creates a rich, immersive experience that resonates with readers.

Quick quotes

    A celebration of friendship, loyalty and difference, Varjak Paw is an adventure like no other.

    This award-winning story has become a modern classic.

    The illustrations enhance the narrative, creating a visually engaging experience.

Miss Jones' Class Blog · 2020-06-24
fantastic 5.00

The book is described as stunning and a joy to read, with a rich vocabulary that enhances the reading experience.

This reviewer absolutely loved Varjak Paw, describing it as a stunning book that's a joy to read. They highlight the rich vocabulary as a standout feature, suggesting that readers will learn new words while enjoying the story. The reviewer also mentions the thrilling adventures and missions that Varjak goes on, making it an engaging read for all ages. The overall tone is highly positive, with a strong recommendation for others to pick up the book.

Quick quotes

    I recommend this book to others because you will learn new words and have the time of your life reading the stunning book of Varjak Paw.

    You will have the time of your life reading the stunning book of Varjak Paw.

    Varjak goes on adventures and missions to find dogs but ends up hiding underneath a car and he finds a way to survive.

Storyroom · 2018-03-12
mixed 3.00

The book is given a mixed review, with praise for its unique story but criticism for its unresolved mysteries.

This reviewer gives Varjak Paw a mixed review, acknowledging its unique and engaging story but also pointing out some unresolved mysteries that left them wanting more. They appreciate the book's originality and the intriguing world it creates, but feel that some aspects, such as the mysterious lady's backstory, could have been explored further. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer finds the book to be a notable addition to children's literature.

Quick quotes

    I would rate Varjak Paw by SF Said (3 stars out of 5).

    Because you didn't know much about the mysterious lady. How did she die? Or the man?

    The book is given a mixed review, with praise for its unique story but criticism for its unresolved mysteries.

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