logo Wed, 07 May 2025 07:57:58 GMT

Skimbleshanks


Synopsis


A wonderful new picture book version of one of T. S. Eliot's most popular cat poems from a timeless magical partnership.

We must find him or the train can't start!


All aboard as Skimbleshanks, the Railway Cat, stars in the third picture-book pairing from Arthur Robins and T. S. Eliot's Old Possum's cats, set on the Night Mail train where Skimble won't let anything go wrong.

To sit alongside other classics such as The Gruffalo, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, and Spot.

'Beautifully illustrated to bring the poem to life.' Independent

'A fabulous way to introduce young readers to poetry.' Huffington Post

T. S. Eliot (author), Arthur Robins (artist)

Summary

Chapter 1: The Railway Cats

In the bustling railway station of Paddington, a group of extraordinary cats lives and works. Led by Skimbleshanks, the Railway Cat, they keep the station running smoothly and protect it from danger.

Chapter 2: Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat

Skimbleshanks, a wise and agile ginger tomcat, is the heart and soul of the railway cats. He has the ability to teleport and communicate with the trains, ensuring their safe passage.

Example: During a busy evening rush hour, Skimbleshanks spots a loose bolt on a train track. Using his teleportation, he races ahead and uses his claws to secure the bolt, preventing a potential derailment.

Chapter 3: Macavity the Mystery Cat

Macavity, a sinister black tomcat with glowing yellow eyes, is a known thief and troublemaker. He is the nemesis of the railway cats and seeks to disrupt their work.

Example: Macavity infiltrates the station's signal box and manipulates the switches, causing trains to be rerouted and delayed. Skimbleshanks and his team must track down Macavity and restore order.

Chapter 4: The Night of the Jellicles

On a moonlit night, the Jellicles, a tribe of magical cats, gather in the station for their annual all-night ball. Skimbleshanks, being an honorary Jellicle, is invited to attend.

Example: As the ball reaches its climax, Skimbleshanks performs a mesmerizing dance routine, showcasing his agility and lightning-fast reflexes, earning the admiration of the other cats.

Chapter 5: Skimbleshanks' Story

Skimbleshanks shares his life story with the Jellicles. He recounts his adventures in different parts of the world, where he honed his skills and learned the value of cooperation and loyalty.

Example: Skimbleshanks describes his time spent with a circus in India, where he learned to juggle, walk on tightropes, and even dance the "Macavity Tango."

Chapter 6: The Rum Tum Tugger

The Rum Tum Tugger, a charismatic and mischievous cat, challenges Skimbleshanks to a dance-off. The two felines engage in a spectacular display of rhythm, agility, and showmanship.

Example: The dance-off culminates in a breathtaking finale, where Skimbleshanks performs a daring leap over the Rum Tum Tugger, symbolizing his triumph over his rival.

Chapter 7: Macavity's Revenge

Macavity returns with a plan to destroy the station and frame the Jellicles. He sets fire to the signal box, causing widespread chaos and endangering the cats.

Example: As Macavity escapes the burning signal box, he encounters Skimbleshanks. The two cats engage in a fierce battle, with Skimbleshanks ultimately outsmarting and defeating his nemesis.

Chapter 8: The Old Gumbie Cat

The Old Gumbie Cat, a wise and elderly cat, comforts the shaken Jellicles and reminds them of the importance of unity and resilience. He encourages them to rebuild their station and continue their important work.

Example: With the help of the station staff and the returning Jellicles, the railway cats band together and repair the damaged signal box, restoring order to Paddington Station.

Chapter 9: Skimbleshanks' Farewell

As dawn breaks, Skimbleshanks realizes it is time for him to move on. He bids farewell to his fellow cats and sets out on a new adventure, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, loyalty, and the enduring spirit of the railway cats.