Book Review: The Cat who Taught Zen
Nov 30, 2024
At first glance, The Cat Who Taught Zen by James Norbury may look like a charming children’s book, but don’t be fooled—this 169-page gem is a reflective, multi-layered journey designed for readers of all ages. Both written and illustrated by Norbury, the book is filled with beautiful watercolour illustrations and line drawings that perfectly complement its thoughtful narrative.
A Journey Through Zen with a Cat as Your Guide
The story introduces us to a discerning and mysterious cat who gently guides us through the tenets of Zen philosophy. As we follow the musings and adventures of the Cat, Norbury introduces fundamental Zen principles, from mindfulness and simplicity to impermanence and acceptance, all while wrapping them in the comforting familiarity of the Cat’s quiet wisdom.
Norbury’s storytelling is further elevated by his remarkable illustrations. Almost every page is adorned with gorgeous artwork, ranging from delicate watercolours to expressive line drawings. The visuals feel like meditative pauses in the narrative, encouraging readers to slow down and absorb the story with their hearts as much as their minds.
A Book That Transcends Genres
Currently ranked #15 in Zen philosophy books on Amazon, The Cat Who Taught Zen finds itself in excellent company alongside works like Thich Nhat Hanh’s No Mud, No Lotus and Marie Kondo’s Spark Joy. Yet, it stands apart by combining storytelling with practical Zen insights, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with Zen teachings.
While marketed as a whimsical story, this is a book with surprising depth. Norbury balances wisdom and warmth, making his work a storytelling escape that also offers moments of quiet introspection.
A Gateway into the world of Zen Teachings
The book closes with an Afterward that begins with the intriguing line, “Zen can be a confusing idea.” Here, Norbury reflects on the inspiration for his stories, noting that they’re based on traditional Zen tales. However, this is where the book stumbles slightly. While the Afterward is thoughtful, it lacks citations to the original Zen stories, leaving readers without a clear sense of their historical context which would be very helpful to learn more about the teachings of Zen philosophy. This omission feels like a missed opportunity to honour the roots of the tradition. However, for newcomers, the book serves as an accessible gateway into the broader world of Zen teachings.
Final Thoughts
The Cat Who Taught Zen is a delightful and insightful read, offering wisdom wrapped in the comforting package of an illustrated story. Its enchanting combination of narrative and artwork makes it a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a moment of calm or a gentle introduction to Zen principles.
That said, while the book’s charm and accessibility are undeniable, readers looking for a more rigorous exploration of Zen may wish it had included more context or citations. Even so, Norbury’s creation stands as a poignant reminder that wisdom often comes from unexpected places—and sometimes, from a discerning cat.
Whether you’re a Zen enthusiast, a lover of beautifully illustrated books, or simply someone looking for a reflective read, The Cat Who Taught Zen is worth a place on your shelf.
