Three unique cats shared a home with the late Beverley Nichols, who wrote dozens of books on topics ranging from politics to gardens. In this playful book, he muses on his feline companions' charms, proper care, and appreciation. 109 color drawings. 1 photo.

Are you concerned that your friends would melt away if they overheard your conversations with your kitties? Do you worry that it's not natural to know -- really know -- exactly what your cats are thinking? If so, Beverley Nichols is a kindred spirit with delightfully witty and utterly absorbing tales about his three cats, Four, Five, and Oscar. Explaining every permutation of cat psychology from "Amusements" to "Zoos," Nichols has written an unforgettable and loving tale of the enduring bonds between cats and people.

First in a trilogy, Merry Hall is the account of the restoration of a house and garden in post-war England. Though Mr. Nichols's horticultural undertaking is serious, his writing is high-spirited, riotously funny, and, at times, deliciously malicious.

Beverley Nichols (1898–1983) was a prolific author, playwright, composer, and media personality. Though much of his work has been forgotten, his garden writing has stood the test of time. His amusing anecdotes, poetic contemplations, and penetrating observations speak to all gardeners — from houseplant killers to nursery professionals — and capture the joy, heartache, and hilarity of gardening. Rhapsody in Green speaks to the true spirit of Beverley Nichols. Compiled by Roy C. Dicks and drawn from fifteen of his best titles, these carefully selected passages offer a tantalizing taste of Nichols's humor, passion, and poetry. Designed for easy browsing and casual reference, it is organized by subject, including favorite plants, despised plants, and the secrets to successful gardening. Readers will also delight in William McLaren's original line drawings spread throughout the text. A must-have for Nichols fans, gardeners, and plant lovers.

An essay recounting the breakup of the marriage of Somerset Maugham and his wife, Syrie.

Beverley Nichols fans, armchair gardeners, and literature enthusiasts will delight in this reprint of the second book in his Allways trilogy, with facsimile reproductions of Rex Whistler's original graceful illustrations and a new foreword by Roy C. Dicks. Nichols's humorous ruminations on life in the countryside, as always, are refreshing. The typical Nichols gardening anecdotes and familiar characters are there, as well as the author's beloved dog, Whoops, an inveterate spy with a habit of leaping to conclusions.

“If in doubt, wash!” What is it like to be a cat? Find out in this classic animal story from the renowned writer Paul Gallico.