Simon Ships Out
How one brave, stray cat became a worldwide hero
Simon Ships Out by Jacky Donovan. Uniquely quirky look at HMS Amethyst true story told thru humorous voice of Able Seacat Simon the ship's cat. Simon Ships Out: How one brave, stray cat became a worldwide hero is a warm hearted and humorous look at a horrific war incident which most people today are unaware of. Able Seacat Simon was, at the time of the Yangtze Incident, a worldwide hero and photos of Able Seacat Simon appeared in the worldwide media, on television, Pathe News and even eventually Able Seacat Simon's obituary was posted in Time Magazine.
Simon Ships Out: How one brave, stray cat became a worldwide hero is narrated by Able Seacat Simon himself and is a witty, heartwarming tale of an exceptionally brave and wonderful cat.
Able Seacat Simon was, and still is, the only cat ever to have won the PDSA Dickin Medal, awarded to animals for bravery in war situations. It has currently been won by 65 animals - horses, dogs and pigeons - but Able Seacat Simon remains the only cat to have been honoured with it. His memoir Simon Ships Out: How one brave, stray cat became a worldwide hero is enticingly told and published in time for a significant anniversary of the Yangtze Incident in which Able Seacat Simon was involved.
The Simon Ships Out: How one brave, stray cat became a worldwide hero by Jacky Donovan is available in both kindle and paperback format. It is suitable for adults and children. Simon Ships Out: How one brave, stray cat became a worldwide hero makes a perfect present for catlovers and animal lovers. It will entertain anybody who enjoys an exciting, adventurous, humorous and emotional tale of one exceptional cat's ability to be a hero and a source of great compassion to the crew of HMS Amethyst during the Yangtze Incident.
I hope you enjoy Able Seacat Simon's story and recommend it to all cat lovers and animal lovers.
What readers are saying about me
If you like Street Cat Bob you'll LOVE Simon
What a wonderful read this book is. I came across it when searching for the latest Street Cat Bob Xmas book and was drawn in by the cover. It's very cleverly 'written' by Simon the cat himself, with an interlude from ship's dog Peggy when Simon is severely injured. I loved the writing style which began in an innocent fashion as Simon the cat finds his feet in life and onboard ship. The beauty of the writing is that you can chart his growth as a cat and in his wordsmithing so he really develops as a character. Peggy the dog is an adorable contrast with her very posh voice and use of words contrasting with Simon's cutesey innocence.
Behind all the fun are so many incredibly clever observations made by Simon as he sees the world thru cat's eyes rather than human.
Brilliant read. I chuckled often and cried even more. Excellent story flow and wonderful portrayal of a forgotten piece of British history.
Nice book
Loved this book from start to finish. Neighbour lent it to me knowing my father was ex Navy. Heaps of photos in it make you see how authentic the story is but its beauty is that the writing doesn't bog you down or bore you with history, but magically blends it all in in an easy-to-read and captivating way. The interaction between Simon the cat and Peggy the ship's dog is truly inspirational and each of them develops a genuine character and 'voice' so you truly feel as if you're listening to a cat's view of what is happening rather than a human being. Hearing what the sailors went through was shocking and the escape finally made by the Captain to take his crew to safety was pretty damn innovative.
The story never flags and each chapter is a neat unit in itself, making for easy reading. Some very funny moments as Simon discovers the ways of the world and gives some enlightening descriptions. One to read and re-read. Totally hope there is more from this author.
An amazing, endearing true story
Endearing and amazing! At first, I didn't quite know what to make of this book written from a cat's point of view. However, I'm so glad I read this and am actually sad that I've finished. As a cat lover who truly knows little animals do have feelings, I was touched and enchanted with Simon's story. Thank you, Jacky Donovan, for writing this! It will stay with me for a long time.
