LITERARY LAS VEGAS

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Henderson resident Linda R. Caterine has a fascination with exotic felines, which led her to acquire Songha, a Savannah female, and Simba, a Bengal male. Songha and her amusing antics inspired Caterine to write a story based on her pet. "The Adventures of Songha: The Amazing Savannah Cat," illustrated by William Dye, traces the half-African Serval leopard, half-house cat's history from life with her leopard father to escapades in her Henderson home.

Songha is set to join Caterine at a book signing at 1 p.m. Sept. 27 at the 567 N. Stephanie St. Barnes & Noble.

Excerpt from "The Adventures of Songha: The Amazing Savannah Cat"

I am a very special cat. I am called a Savannah cat, because my father came from the Savannahs of Africa, the ancient planes that my leopard family has been roaming for thousands of years.

I am proud of my heritage and I am very rare. There are not many cats like me in the whole world. If you saw me, I know you would be impressed. You probably have never seen a cat like me. I know it might sound like I am bragging, but it just happens to be the truth! Everyone is amazed when they see me. But I am not just amazing to look at ... I CAN DO AMAZING THINGS!

I am very, very smart. I can play fetch like a dog. I like to walk on a leash and no one had to teach me. I just always knew how! I can open doors and I am a skilled escape artist (as you will soon find out). With my long legs, I can reach into remote areas and pull out WONDERFUL things, like mice and lizards. Unlike most cats, I love to play in water. I can reach down deep into rivers and catch fish. I can jump six feet high. I learned that from my father.