Wilma was found on the Dutch tulip fields, only to be taken to New Zealand. She ponders why she has to put up with her humans’ constant endeavours to find a better life. While they work hard and worry about their work-life balance, Wilma says her “only struggle is of the indoor-outdoorsy kind”.
She sneaks out on adventures with Stella whose eyes “shine like big stars”, and with unlikely best friend Bobby who takes her on a tour around his olive grove and beyond.
Wilma’s observations are quirky as she comments on life in New Zealand – “the insulation was a joke that did not make me laugh”. And when, ten years later, she finds herself back in the Netherlands again, Wilma decides it is time to tell her story.
If you love cats and travelling, you’ll adore Wilma’s book. It’s both funny and sad, and mainly about following your heart.
You can buy My Name is Wilma as an ebook or in print.
Reviews
Cozy up and enjoy the ride
My Name is Wilma is a quirky book that’ll take you on a journey of exploration of the world through the eyes of a cat. If you’re a cat lover, then cozy up and enjoy the ride.
Wilma, the cat’s story begins on the Dutch tulip fields where her life was rough and rugged. It was only after she meets her humans, Kirsten and Willem, does she realize how wonderfully sheltered a cat’s life can be. The story is narrated from Wilma’s point of view.
In Kirsten’s house, Wilma meets Sailor, Kapitein, Prince, and many other cats throughout the book. While Wilma has learned many lessons about surviving in the outside world, she relies on Kapitein to be her guide, mentor, and friend for wise pieces of advice. Kapitein helps Wilma get comfortable in her new home and also gives life lessons on how to deal with difficult situations.
While Sailor and Wilma are tolerant of each other, they never become extremely close and Wilma instead seeks adventures outside. Soon, they have to make a difficult journey from the Netherlands to New Zealand. This part of the story is invigorating and described in remarkable detail where we get to experience what cats go through during a long overseas flight. The fear, uncertainty, confusion, and finally relief are something we go through together with Wilma while reading the book. The adventures continue one after the other until Wilma reaches her forever home.
Nadine on Reedsy
The world through a cat’s eyes
This book reminded me of a story I read as a child in which a stray cat goes on adventures. Wilma is no longer a stray but has more adventures than most. It’s an endearing tale of a trip across the world, narrated by this observant feline.
It serves as a reflection on the lives of her human companions as they experience culture shock, financial instability and housing issues. The story makes you smile and has moments of sadness too, just like real life. A gentle comfort read for any animal lover.
Leekmuncher on Amazon.co.uk
Really enjoyed it
I really enjoyed the book My Name is Wilma and would recommend it. Well written and made you feel like you were there with Wilma and the others, happy and sad moments throughout.
Jacqui Parker, Auckland
Love Wilma’s angle
Nice easy read and a lovely story. Love the angle of Wilma telling the story and so much of the story is familiar territory for us; the description of the region, the characters etc. Although I was not able to unscramble all of them, I got most of them. I also recognised a lot of the story itself and it was interesting reading it from Wilma’s perspective. Great memories.
Marc van de Loo, Featherston
Delightful read
I loved the unique perspective in the book, with a combination of humour and brilliant storytelling, it brought me back to some of my own memories. I highly recommend this book to others. Loved it!”
Kindle Customer on amazon.nl
Great read
Great book. It grabbed me right from the start.
Ciska Kuick on amazon.nl
Heartwarming tale
A heart warming story told from the perspective of a loveable and humorous cat. Some lovely descriptions and insights.
Reader on amazon.com.au