Being homeless is a challenge for any adult cat, but for a kitten only a few months old that has lost its mother, it is like scaling the Matterhorn without climbing gear. It needs to learn to stave off hunger, find safe shelter, and protect itself from constant danger … or else. And if that kitten also has a congenital disability which makes it somewhat uncoordinated, that calculates its odds of survival as even lower.Yet somehow this black, long-haired, honey-eyed kitten intrepidly and cleverly navigated his world of slavering dogs, territorial cats, raccoons, BBs, teenagers, and Firestone radials with an abundance of luck that made his blossoming and journey possible. As he relates it to Dr. Dayhoff, he describes his experiences of sadness, beauty, pain, gratitude, and delight. He rejoices in how his last-minute rescue saved his nearly-amputated leg, altered his perceptions of the world, and ultimately focused him on his purpose of sharing himself with others in emotionally difficult circumstances.If you love kittens or cats and know the struggle the homeless ones go through yet survive and thrive with a little human help, I think you’ll enjoy this story of ultimate success.What readers have said: Intrepid’s harrowing tale is every man’s journey from despair to triumph. Dr. Dayhoff’s craft and unique perspective make for a touching, enjoyable read. - L. McDonough, B.A. Ed., M.A. Ed. The cat whisperer has done it again! Dr. Signe Dayhoff relates a warm and wonderful story of a homeless orphan cat named Intrepid who, up against almost insurmountable odds, perseveres. Life on the street is brutal and very nearly does in this plucky and lucky black kitten as he encounters life there. Severely injured, he is blessed by the Universe to be rescued and healed as he’s introduced to his rescuer, under whose care he discovers a purpose to his life, previously unimaginable. A tale with parallels in human experience, the story of this cat inspires all of us to be all we can be. - Jack Daye As someone who has rescued cats for over four decades, I have often wondered what those cats experienced before they came to me. I only wish I could talk to the animals and listen to their tales as Dr. Dayhoff has in this book. She has captured the intimacy one can develop with a kitten and how both humans and kittens can grow together, become stronger because of that bond, and then share that strength with others. A great read! - Barbara Bayer, PhD, President, CARMA (Companion Animal Rescue & Medical Assistance, Inc.) Dr. Dayhoff rescues and heals cats and beautifully gives voice to the kitten who heals humans. Hear them both speak. - Anne Lane
