Varjak Paw

Varjak Paw is the first entry in S. F. Said’s series of middle-grade adventure stories. The 2003 novel follows the titular character as he matures from a sheltered kitten into a courageous leader and fighter. The book also introduces Holly and Tam, two street cats who become Varjak’s friends, and Cludge, a dog who helps Varjak save his family from the villainous Gentleman. At the end of Varjak’s first adventure, he, his friends, and the street cats he rescued from the Gentleman form their own gang and return to London.

Said continues the brave cat’s story in The Outlaw Varjak Paw, which was published in 2005. While much of the first book takes place in the Contessa’s home and centers around Varjak’s desire to fit in with his relatives, the sequel focuses on Varjak’s found family rather than his biological family. In addition, Varjak is an adult cat in the second book. These changes underscore Varjak’s growth and independence while shifting the story’s themes from The Impact of Heritage on Personal Development to the struggles of leadership.

After establishing themselves in London, Varjak and his friends must once again battle for survival.