Monday, October 22, 2018

Book Review: Lucky Cat by Mio Yamada


Its beckoning paw has a cult fan base, but the lucky cat is more than just a cute ornament. The iconic creature is a symbol of good fortune and used as a powerful lucky charm in shops and homes across Japan, China, and beyond.

The lucky cat (or maneki neko in Japanese) has a long history dating back to the 17th century that's packed with fascinating folklore, serious symbolism and countless contemporary cat spin-offs. Its paw, bib, coin, collar, and colors all have meaning. 

Did you know a pink cat will bring you luck in love, while a gold cat is all about wealth? Or that a left-pawed cat is used by businesses to attract customers, while a cat with a beckoning right paw is found in homes as talisman?

Dive into this adorable book to find out all you need to know about the beautiful lucky cat.


I'm obsessed with the maneki neko and it's fascinating history, enough so that I would love to make the long journey to Japan just to find some unique pieces to add to my collection. From the meaning behind the colors used, to the differences between right/left/both paws up, to the various manufacturers that have produced maneki nekos, this book will teach you everything you ever wanted to know about Japan's iconic lucky cat. Did you know there's even a blue-eyed, back-handed dollar neko which beckons the Western way (paw facing in) made specifically for export to America?

This would make a wonderful stocking stuffer for the cat lover in your life this Christmas...but you're going to want to get a copy for yourself too!



Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. As members of the Amazon Associates affiliate program, if you click on our links and buy something Mudpie gets a little money for her piggy bank!

14 comments:

Chirpy Cats said...

Oh My Cat! is this ever cute. I also love everything about the Maneki Neko and enjoyed it when featured on Must Love Cats when he visits Japan. Thanks for this little "Tortie Shortie" book review.

Summer at sparklecat.com said...

My human says we need a maneki neko of every color!

Fur Everywhere said...

Sounds like a great book! These kitties have always fascinated me, and I'd love to learn more about them!

Mickey's Musings said...

What an interesting book.
We really like your little decorative ones too :)
Purrs Georgia,Julie and JJ

Fr. Tom Fish said...

The housekeeper has a lot of silly cat things around here, but this has meaning!! Now I know what I'll get her for Christmas. Thanks, Mudpie and I'll get the book to go along with it!!- Tom x

Cat and DOG Chat With Caren said...

I love maneki neko, years ago I reviewed the cute book by Maggie Swanson, that's when I first learned all about lucky cat. I need all the luck I can get!

Rene said...

I know someone who would love this book! TFS!

Eastside Cats said...

I've been gifted two Maneki Nekos, and I treasure them greatly!

The Menagerie Mom said...

I have become increasingly intrigued by the maneki neko. I don't know all that much about it yet, but now I know where to go to learn more!

Hairballsandhissyfits.com said...

i loved learning about the Maneki Neko--now i want one too!!

pilch92 said...

That sounds like a fun book. I am very superstitious. :)

Cathy Keisha said...

I guess TW is the only one not into them. I guess that's why she has only bad luck. MOL!

meowmeowmans said...

What a great book. We love Maneki Neko! I saw them all over the place when I was in Japan. They really are ubiquitous there.

Three Chatty Cats said...

This sounds like a great book!