SHAKE CATS BOOK REVIEW

Animal photographer, Carli Davidson’s, new book, Shake Cats, should keep you smiling and chuckling from beginning to end. Her third “shake” book features 61 adorable felines in motion. You’ll see flying ears, tongues sticking out of mouths, protruding fangs and “crazy” eyes.

When I was asked if I’d review this book, I was concerned about what was done to these cats to cause them to shake. But not to worry; no cats were harmed before or while being photographed. To find out how Davidson got these cats to shake, you’ll have to read the book. Admittedly, there is very little reading to be done.

Most of the kitties featured are rescues and shelter cats from three Portland, Oregon, shelters. Some are cats that might be categorized as “unadaptable.” They are diabetic or FIV+. As part of this project, Davidson provided the shelters with portraits of her models to help encourage adoption. Additionally, a portion of her advance for this book will be donated to the three shelters that helped with this project.

lil bub in shake catsOne of the non-shelter cats featured in Shake Cats is a celebricat. You may recognize Lil Bub.

Davidson says of herself in the book’s introduction: “People who know me know that I am a huge supporter of adopting animals from shelters, especially older animals, and giving them a second chance.” She adds, “My cats have all been rescues…”

shake cats

Photographer Carli Davidson and her cat, Yushi.

 

Davidson is a self-proclaimed “Crazy Cat Lady.” She’s also an award-winning photographer. Her work has been featured in publications such as Vanity Fair, New York Times, Huffington Post, Rolling Stone and Slate, as well as on TV for CNN, Fox & Friends, and Good Morning America.

I am ending this review with one of Davidson’s dedications from Shake Cats. I think it gives you an insight into her personality and love of cats. “To Hulk Hogan, my superfierce first cat, a big sexy blond tabby who didn’t need balls to be a super badass. Spay and neuter your pets.”

The 144-page, hardbound Shake Cats is available from most on-line booksellers and retail book stores.