The “Cat Who…” series, penned by Lillian Jackson Braun, captivated readers for decades with its charming blend of small-town intrigue and feline intuition. Jim Qwilleran, a seasoned journalist with a keen eye for detail, and his two Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum, became beloved characters in the mystery genre. But as with all good things, the series eventually came to an end. Determining the final entry in this celebrated series, however, isn’t as straightforward as it might seem.
Decoding the Publication History of the “Cat Who…” Series
Lillian Jackson Braun’s literary journey with the “Cat Who…” books was marked by significant gaps and unexpected returns. Her initial foray into the series occurred in the 1960s, with the publication of the first three novels. After a considerable hiatus, she resumed writing the series in the late 1980s, continuing until her passing in 2011. This unusual publication pattern contributes to the ambiguity surrounding the true final book.
The Initial Trilogy and the Long Hiatus
The first three books, “The Cat Who Could Read Backwards” (1966), “The Cat Who Ate Danish Modern” (1967), and “The Cat Who Turned On and Off” (1968), introduced readers to the world of Jim Qwilleran and his early adventures. These novels set the stage for the series’ distinctive style, characterized by its cozy mystery elements and focus on the quirky characters of Pickax City. However, after these initial successes, Braun took a break from the series for nearly two decades.
The Resurgence and Continued Popularity
In 1986, Lillian Jackson Braun surprised and delighted her fans by returning to the “Cat Who…” series with “The Cat Who Saw Red.” This marked the beginning of a prolific period for the author, as she went on to write numerous additional installments in the series over the next 25 years. Her writing style evolved somewhat over time, but the core elements that made the books so popular – the engaging mysteries, the charming characters, and the clever antics of Koko and Yum Yum – remained constant.
The Contenders for the Title of “Last Cat Who Book”
Determining the last book hinges on different factors. Publication date versus the date of completion and readiness for publication are two distinct timelines that impact the final designation.
“The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers” – The Published Finale
The final “Cat Who…” book released to the public was “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers,” published in 2007. This book finds Qwilleran embroiled in yet another mystery in Pickax County, with Koko and Yum Yum providing their usual enigmatic assistance. The plot revolves around a series of peculiar events and suspicious characters, keeping readers guessing until the very end. For many fans, “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers” represents the official end of the series.
“The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” – The Story Behind the Unfinished Manuscript
Following the publication of “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers,” Lillian Jackson Braun continued to work on another “Cat Who…” novel, titled “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke.” However, Braun’s failing health prevented her from completing the manuscript before her death in 2011. While the book was never published in its entirety, excerpts and plot summaries have been shared with fans, offering a glimpse into what could have been.
The story centers around a fire at the Goodwinter Farm, with Qwilleran and the cats investigating the potential causes and uncovering secrets hidden within the community. Although incomplete, “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” holds a special place in the hearts of “Cat Who…” fans, representing the author’s dedication to her craft and the characters she created.
Why “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers” is Considered the Last
Although “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” existed as an unfinished manuscript, several factors solidify “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers” as the last published and officially recognized “Cat Who…” book.
Completion and Publication
“The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers” was a finished, edited, and published work. This is the most crucial distinction. Books require a complete narrative, professional editing, and distribution to be considered part of an author’s official body of work. “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke,” in its incomplete state, lacks these key elements.
Author’s Intent
While Braun clearly intended to publish “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke,” her inability to complete it means it doesn’t fully represent her artistic vision. The final published book reflects the author’s final completed intent released to the public.
Legacy and Reception
“The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers” stands as the last fully realized installment in the series, allowing fans to experience a complete “Cat Who…” mystery. It provides a sense of closure, even though the series’ ending was ultimately brought about by unforeseen circumstances.
The Enduring Appeal of the “Cat Who…” Series
Regardless of which book is considered the “last,” the “Cat Who…” series continues to enchant readers worldwide. Several key factors contribute to its enduring popularity:
Charming Characters
Jim Qwilleran’s wit, intelligence, and growing affection for his feline companions made him a relatable and endearing protagonist. The supporting cast of Pickax City residents added depth and humor to the stories, creating a vibrant and engaging community. Koko and Yum Yum, with their uncanny ability to sense trouble and provide cryptic clues, became iconic figures in the world of animal detectives.
Cozy Mystery Elements
The “Cat Who…” books fall squarely within the cozy mystery genre, emphasizing atmosphere, character development, and intricate plots over graphic violence or explicit content. This makes them appealing to a wide range of readers who appreciate a good puzzle and a heartwarming story. The setting of Pickax City, with its small-town charm and quirky inhabitants, further enhances the cozy atmosphere of the series.
Feline Intuition and Mystery
Koko and Yum Yum are not just pets; they’re integral to solving the mysteries. Their unusual behaviors, often interpreted by Qwilleran, provide critical clues that lead to the unmasking of the culprits. This unique blend of feline intuition and human deduction adds an intriguing and delightful element to the stories.
Lillian Jackson Braun’s Literary Legacy
Lillian Jackson Braun left behind a rich literary legacy with the “Cat Who…” series. Her books not only entertained millions of readers but also helped to shape the cozy mystery genre. Her unique blend of humor, suspense, and feline charm continues to inspire authors and delight fans to this day.
Her impact on the genre can’t be overstated. By incorporating the feline perspective into the mystery narrative, she created a truly unique and unforgettable series. The “Cat Who…” books remain a testament to her creativity, her storytelling skills, and her deep appreciation for the bond between humans and animals.
While “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” remains a tantalizing glimpse into what might have been, “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers” rightfully holds its place as the final, published chapter in the beloved “Cat Who…” saga. It’s a fitting end to a series that has brought joy, suspense, and countless hours of reading pleasure to generations of fans.
What was the last book published in the “The Cat Who…” series by Lillian Jackson Braun?
The last book published in Lillian Jackson Braun’s “The Cat Who…” series was “The Cat Who Brought Down the House,” released in 2003. This 29th installment continued the adventures of Jim Qwilleran and his Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum, in Pickax City. It brought an end to the popular cozy mystery series that had captivated readers for over three decades.
“The Cat Who Brought Down the House” sees Qwilleran investigating a series of strange incidents surrounding the renovation of a historic theater. As usual, Koko’s mysterious behaviors provide clues, guiding Qwilleran towards the truth behind the perplexing events. The novel is considered a fitting conclusion to the series, tying up loose ends and maintaining the lighthearted and intriguing style that defined Braun’s writing.
When did Lillian Jackson Braun pass away, and how did that impact the series?
Lillian Jackson Braun passed away on June 4, 2011, at the age of 97. Her death marked the definitive end of “The Cat Who…” series, as she was the sole author and creative force behind the books. Fans had hoped for more installments, but her passing confirmed that “The Cat Who Brought Down the House” would remain the final chapter.
Although several years passed between the publication of her last book and her death, Braun did not publish any further installments in the series. Her unique style, the charm of Qwilleran and his feline companions, and the quaint setting of Pickax City were all products of her imagination, making it impossible for another author to authentically continue the series.
What made “The Cat Who…” series so popular?
The “The Cat Who…” series gained immense popularity due to its unique blend of cozy mystery, feline companionship, and engaging storytelling. Lillian Jackson Braun crafted a world that was both intriguing and comforting, featuring relatable characters and a picturesque setting in the fictional Pickax County. The puzzles were challenging but not overly complex, making the books accessible to a wide audience.
Moreover, the relationship between Jim Qwilleran and his Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum, was a central element of the series’ appeal. Koko’s uncanny ability to sense danger and provide clues to solve mysteries captivated readers, adding a touch of whimsy and intelligence to the stories. The cats were not just pets, but active participants in the investigations, endearing them to cat lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike.
Were there any common criticisms of the “The Cat Who…” series?
One recurring criticism of “The Cat Who…” series revolved around its formulaic nature. While many readers enjoyed the predictable structure and familiar characters, others found that the later books became repetitive and lacked the freshness of the earlier installments. The plots sometimes relied on convenient coincidences, and the pacing could be slow for some readers’ tastes.
Another point of contention was the occasional lack of depth in character development. While Qwilleran and his cats were well-defined, some secondary characters were perceived as stereotypical or underdeveloped. Furthermore, the series occasionally touched upon sensitive topics, but without delving into them with the nuance that some readers expected.
Who was Jim Qwilleran in “The Cat Who…” series?
Jim Qwilleran was the central protagonist of “The Cat Who…” series. He began as a crime reporter for a major city newspaper before inheriting a substantial fortune and relocating to the rural setting of Pickax City. Qwilleran’s character was characterized by his sharp intellect, keen observation skills, and unwavering curiosity, making him a natural detective.
Qwilleran’s personality evolved throughout the series, reflecting his experiences and relationships. His bond with his Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum, was a defining aspect of his character, demonstrating his compassion and intuitive nature. He became a beloved figure in Pickax City, known for his generosity, wit, and dedication to solving mysteries.
What role did Koko and Yum Yum play in the “The Cat Who…” books?
Koko and Yum Yum, Jim Qwilleran’s Siamese cats, played a crucial role in the “The Cat Who…” series. Koko, in particular, possessed an uncanny ability to sense danger, identify clues, and communicate his insights to Qwilleran through peculiar behaviors. These feline intuitions often guided Qwilleran towards uncovering the truth behind the mysteries he investigated.
While Yum Yum played a less direct role in solving crimes, she provided emotional support and companionship to Qwilleran. Both cats contributed to the charm and humor of the series, endearing themselves to readers with their distinct personalities and playful interactions. They were integral to the series’ success, transforming the cozy mysteries into something uniquely delightful.
Is there any chance of “The Cat Who…” series being revived or continued by another author?
Due to Lillian Jackson Braun’s unique writing style and the personal connection she had to her characters and setting, it is highly unlikely that “The Cat Who…” series will be revived or continued by another author. Braun’s estate has not authorized any continuation of the series, respecting her creative vision and the legacy she established.
While fan fiction and inspired works may exist, a canonically sanctioned continuation of the series is not expected. The charm of “The Cat Who…” books lay in Braun’s distinct voice and the intimate world she created, making it difficult for anyone else to replicate the magic of the original series authentically. Therefore, fans must cherish the existing 29 books as the complete and final story of Jim Qwilleran and his feline companions.