This is honestly one of my favorite books that I’ve ever handled. A universally charming book.

The book was conceived by legendary choreographer George Balanchine and his wife, Tanquil Le Clercq who was a ballerina until she was left paralyzed by polio.

Balanchine adopted a New York alley cat and began training it to perform jumps. The book was shot by Martha Swope, who photographed the cat and Balanchine for a beloved photo that ran in Life Magazine.

The book was written by Le Clercq in the voice of the cat.

This is the first UK edition, published in 1965. Cover shows age related wear including chipping to the top corners.

A rare title and one of the most charming books I’ve handled.