Cat Paws Through History: Ko-Ko the Cat Meets Napoleon Bonaparte

By Isabel H. Stepanian

&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbspIt all began when Mumzy and Popzy placed me in that chicken coop of a carrier from Saks Fifth Avenue, and off we wentonce again. Little did I know as to what was to befall my poor, furry person.

&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbspBut alas,how was I to suspect as to what awaited me on the other side of the ocean?To say, that it was to be an adventure,was most assuredly an understatement.

&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbspHumph!Phffft!What is a cat to do?For at first, unbeknownst to me, I believed that Napoleon was a most delicious pastryBoy!Was I ever wrong! Phffft! Ko-Ko the Cat muttered in a miffed fashion, as he stuck a single whisker in the air in an aristocratic manner, and crossed his forepaws in a regal way.

&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbspAnd thus the reader steps into the mind of Ko-Ko the Cat - an informative and opinionated feline. His views of the philosophies, manners and etiquettes of life are quite enchanting: Filled with laughter and joy. Curious as a cat can be, he teaches and amuses the reader as he experiences history and encounters historical figures while he travels through the world with his human parents.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: May 20, 2011
• ISBN: 9781477270981

Isabel H. Stepanian

&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp In 1964, Isabel H. Stepanian immigrated to the United States of America with her parents. Upon their arrival, the family settled in East Los Angeles, California for six years. &nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp Educated in America, she presently holds a Master of Arts Degree. Both a writer and a speaker, she is an avid believer of animal rights. Therefore, 10% of the royalties from the sale of each book Cat Paws Through History, Ko-Ko the Cat Meets Napoleon Bonaparte, will be donated to The American Society For The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals - The ASPCA. &nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp Her beloved cat Ko-Ko is - Ko-Ko the Cat: The central character upon which the Cat Paws Through History books have been written. Filled with wonderful memories, the books reveal the many encounters and adventures of Ko-Ko, as he travels about the world accompanied by his human parents: Visiting historical places, and encountering figures of history. &nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp Having traveled to nineteen countries, it is these very experiences which are brought to life for the reader through the eyes of Ko-Ko. Filled with laughter and joy, the books are a delightful look into the mind of an extremely informative and opinionated cat. They stir one’s curiosity, teach and amuse. &nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp Written from the heart, the Cat Paws Through History Books are intended for the reader who possesses a childlike heart - no matter their age. &nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp Presently, the author resides in the United States of America, along with her family and her furry children - her beloved pets.

Book preview

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Cat Paws Through History

Ko-Ko the Cat Meets Napoleon Bonaparte

Isabel H. Stepanian

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AuthorHouse™

1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.authorhouse.com

Phone: [phone]

This book is a work of fiction. People, places, events, and situations are the product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or historical events, is purely coincidental.

© 2011 Isabel H. Stepanian. All rights reserved.

This book or parts thereof may not be used or reproduced in any form or manner, stored in a retrieval system now known or to be invented, copied for private or public use, or transmitted in any form by any means; electronic, mechanical, photographic, photocopying, recording, scanning or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author.

First published by AuthorHouse 1/17/2011

ISBN: 978-1-4389-5810-1 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4389-5811-8 (hc)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2009908418

Contents

Thank You

A Note from Ko-Ko the Cat

Preface

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

About the Author

Notes

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This book is dedicated to God.

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To my parents — Edmond and Lida Hovsepian.

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To my husband — Grisha Stepanian.

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To my furry children — my pets.

You made my dream possible. Your endless hours of love, sacrifice, patience, support, and understanding have allowed me to keep believing. I thank you.

John 3:16

Thank You

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I wish to thank the following individuals,

for their patience, kindness, time and talent.

Kelly Barrow of AuthorHouse

Art Director-Cover Illustration

Ronald Bowles of AuthorHouse

Senior Marketing Consultant

Adalee Cooney of AuthorHouse

Assistant Manager-Production

Argishti Musakhanyan-Artist

Angela Springer

Teri Watkins - Gambia Team

of AuthorHouse

Mary White of AuthorHouse

Custom Illustrations Coordinator

Janet Zarokian-Artist

I thank you, and Ko-Ko thanks you.

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A Note from Ko-Ko the Cat

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"Phffft! …Please note that 10% of the royalties from the sale of each book — Cat Paws Through History, Ko-Ko the Cat Meets Napoleon Bonaparte, — will be donated to the A.S.P.C.A. —

The American Society For The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

"After all, one must not forget that the creatures of the world need one’s help and kindness. Please,…do help them, however and whenever it is possible to do so.

As such, I wish to extend…a most respectful meow,…and an heartfelt thank you from the very bottom of my ever so furry being…Ta-ta!

— Ko-Ko the Cat

Preface

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All things are possible with God!

Everything is possible in America!

My parents would often tell me this: Sometimes, — on a daily basis.

Alas, I would hear it upon every, single, appropriate occasion: On my way to school, at the dinner table, — so on and so forth. My parents had great faith in God, and all that America represented. They believed in the American dream.

As is the case with so many other Americans and their ancestors, I was not born in the United States: However, — I was most definitely made in America!

In 1964, my parents sacrificed everything, and I mean everything, in order to immigrate to this wonderful land of opportunity: This country of great dreams. Upon arrival, we settled in a small apartment house in East Los Angeles, California, and began a new life in a new place.

One evening, an Encyclopædia Britannica salesman happened to knock upon our apartment door. My father opened the door, only to find a young man standing there. With his arms filled with books, he proceeded to gingerly announce to my father that he was a door to door salesman. Feeling rather badly for the young man, who was going from one house to another on such a cold night, my father promptly asked him to come in.

That very evening, after the young man had made his presentation, my father decided to purchase the complete set of the 1964 edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica books. For some unbeknownst reason, he firmly believed that the books would, some day, be quite important for my future. Thus, he announced to my mother, in a rather brisk manner, that no matter the cost, somehow they would manage to pay for the purchase of the books. Now, — this was indeed a great sacrifice. Especially, for a family who had just arrived in America: But alas, through the years, it was only one of many sacrifices which were made by my parents.

Yet, — my father believed. He believed that the set of books would make a difference in the life of their child: A little girl who did not speak a single word of English — as of yet.

Thus, — this is how it all began. The door bell rang. A young man entered our home. He sold a set of beautiful books, which in turn — changed the life of a little girl!

Books have always been an important factor in my family’s day to day existence. From a very early age, I was always encouraged by my parents to read and to explore the many wonders of books.

One could simply sit down, open a book, and enter into another time and place. Thus to me, they became a mysterious chest filled with quite a treasure.

Through the years, books unlocked many a fascinating door. Beyond these doors, there awaited endless hours of fantastic adventures. At the very turn of each page, one would instantaneously be transferred to another world. There was so much to learn, and so very little time for one to do so.

Therefore, I have come to believe that the purchase of the complete set of the 1964 edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica books placed me upon the very path of writing. To this day, I cherish them immensely, and I use them with fond memories.

I have always been quite fascinated with history: Historical places, events, and figures.

To me, the past is filled with great encounters: Mysterious and alluring — constantly beckoning one to explore its endless domain.

The Cat Paws Through History Books were written with a single purpose — to awaken, within the reader, a deep and intense yearning: To fill them with utter curiosity.

Much is said about the curiosity of cats: Therefore, it is this very same inquisitive nature which drives the central character of the books, Ko-Ko the Cat, — from one procacious adventure to another.

My desire was to create an enjoyable learning experience: To make it fun. Thus, having taken historical facts, people, places and events — I set them in a delightful reading format. The books are filled with laughter, and the comic, amusing moments of living life in the presence of an animal companion.

Based upon our own travels — experiences, adventures, personal notes and photographs; the stories unfold through the eyes of Ko-Ko — our beloved cat.

I have noted that in the passing of the years, a most unfortunate change has come about: Children have become so overwhelmed with all that the present holds, that unfortunately — they do not always have an interest in the past.

Therefore, sadly — the past and its beauty have been, at times, neglected and forgotten all too quickly. Although, I am quite certain that this is not true of every, single child.

When I was growing up, being surrounded with pets, history, culture, music, dance and the arts, were quite important within my family. They enriched my life tremendously.

Yet sometimes, — I do not find this to be true in the present.

That is quite disheartening. The past is gone, and all too soon forgotten, as is said; however, — the past can indeed enrich one’s life tremendously.

Alas, after all, — this is how it all began for me. By a slight turn of a page, I came to realize what great adventure and beauty the world held.

As a child, I yearned to see historical places. My curiosity grew with the passing of each year. A travel poster would beckon me in a teasing manner: Thus, I would imagine that I was actually there — standing within its midst.

Oh! — How, I craved to learn more about their many mysteries. I desired to experience these places on my very own: To expand my horizons in a positive manner.

Therefore, if I could somehow inspire just one child to believe in his or her dream, — then I have fulfilled the purpose in the writing of these books.

Much love went into the creation of Cat Paws Through History. It comes from my very heart and soul. Having cherished each and every moment of the process, these writings have brought me immense joy. I do indeed thank God for this.

Please note that in order to create, and to fully present the story in a proper manner, it has been sometimes necessary to use certain, somewhat difficult words: Old English, words from other languages, and the speaking patterns of the past, have been used in the writing. Thus, I wish to encourage the use of a good dictionary.

Dictionaries are magical things: They hold a treasure trove of new, old, and lost words.

As stated before, the character of Ko-Ko the Cat is based upon Ko-Ko — our beloved cat. Alas, — how can one best describe Ko-Ko?

Ko-Ko the Cat: A most marvelous, furry, and adorable gift from God.

A guardian angel disguised as a pussycat: Intelligent and beautiful. A creature of immense curiosity, bold character, strong willed personality, precocious manner, witty sense of humor and — wisdom.

One would almost believe that I was describing an human being, — but I am not. I am indeed describing our beloved Ko-Ko — our one and only Ko-Ko.

We love him tremendously. I deeply hope that you will, in turn, grow to love him as well.

Memories of Ko-Ko’s many adventures, and all that we have encountered along with him, are utter gems which we treasure on a daily basis!

I do hope that the Cat Paws Through History books will awaken a sense of adventure within you as well: Bringing about an immense love for knowledge and creativity, filling your hearts with joy and laughter, lifting your spirits, making learning fun, and impacting your life in a most positive manner.

This was the mission placed before me: Hopefully, I have accomplished the task at hand successfully. I wish to thank you for considering my book. I do hope and pray that as you read it, it will enrich your life deeply, as it has mine — by writing it.

The Cat Paws Through History books are intended for those who possess a childlike heart: No matter their age.

Please remember: Always believe in your God given gifts. Never close the door upon your blessed destiny. God loves you!

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Chapter One

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Alas, Ko-Ko the Cat did not know what all the fuss was about.

As he watched from afar, — Mumzy, his human Mama, — was scampering to and fro once again: Pretending to be a squirrel, he presumed.

Humans could act so silly at times: He mused, as he twitched his long whiskers, and crossed his paws in a royal manner. Not at all like cats. Cats were regal.

Especially, — Persian cats!

Being a Persian cat himself, he was quite proud of the fact that his family lineage was steeped in history, and that the breed which he represented was known as one of the oldest and most intelligent breed of cats.

This morning, he had been sitting in his wicker basket for the past hour trying desperately to take a much needed nap; However, Mumzy had been of absolutely no help. For, it seemed the harder he tried — the more noise Mumzy seem to make.

Phffft! he muttered beneath his breath. Much too much noise for his particular liking at this hour of the day!

Noise always made it rather difficult for one to fall asleep.

Why, in heaven’s, she did not know this was a rather perplexing thought. After all, did Mumzy not understand that napping was an essential part of a feline’s daily routine? — He asked himself curiously, as he wiggled his long whiskers.

Raising his wide head slowly, Ko-Ko gave out a loud meow.

‘Perhaps now,’ he thought in a somewhat miffed manner, ‘she would comprehend the fact that he wished to have some peace and quiet.’

Why was it so very difficult at times to train humans? He pondered.

Alas, did they not consider themselves to be the most intelligent of all creatures which God had created?

Huh! — Tut! Tut! Tut! That was a matter of opinion!

Peef, puff, poof! he muttered beneath his breath in sheer exasperation.

Having heard him, Mumzy stopped in her tracks. Turning about ever so slowly, she proceeded to stare at him in the most curious manner: Alas, the stare down had begun.

Then, with a disturbingly serious look upon her face, she uttered with emphasis:

Ko-Ko…of all the rooms in this house, I absolutely do not comprehend as to why you insist upon taking your morning nap in our master bedroom? she questioned, in an authoritative tone.

Excellent! — At least she had interpreted his meow correctly, Ko-Ko mused, as he recrossed his paws in a different manner: Having suddenly become quite bored with the entire matter at hand, he yawned and squinted his golden eyes.

Now, what was he to do while she was making all this noise? It was rather a predicament.

Stretching out his chubby claws, he proceeded to do his finger exercises: Pretending to have not heard Mumzy’s most indelicate comments.

However, — no matter how hard he tried, — it was rather difficult to ignore her presence. She was such a formidable force when she wanted to be.

After all, but a few years ago, they had named an hurricane after her!

Come to think of it, he mused, she did seem rather miffed at him. For, he could always tell when Mumzy was miffed. She would have that certain look within her dark-brown, doe-like eyes, almost as if a tornado was about to arise.

Yet, what Ko-Ko could not understand was as to why she was so very upset with him? Alas, — was it not she who was disturbing his sleep, — not the other way around?

Pish-Posh!

Sighing, Ko-Ko stretched out his short and somewhat pudgy arms even further: As far as they would go in fact, for he just remembered — he had not done his stretching exercises this morning. They were a mandatory, daily routine, especially if one were a cat, which he most certainly was.

Looking almost like the Egyptian Sphinx, he proceeded to stare at Mumzy with his half-closed, golden eyes. Then, he winked several times.

Perhaps, he mused as he batted his long, black eyelashes, if he were to concentrate hard enough, he could somehow mesmerize her into stopping all this scampering about. It was quite disturbing.

Well, he pondered, it was most certainly worth a try.

Focus! Focus! — Mesmerize!

But alas, his efforts were to no avail. He failed, for it did not work. She was still scampering about in a most undignified manner.

Such a disappointment: What was he to do now?

Opening his mouth wide, he yawned: Thus, pushing his long, white whiskers back towards his tiny ears.

My goodness, such silly questions Mumzy was asking this morning, he pondered to himself in a bored manner. Besides, what in heavens was the matter of preferring this particular room for his morning nap? Did she not realize that the answer to that specific question was quite simple?

Why ever not?!

This particular, beautiful basket, in which he found himself reclining at present, was after all one of his very favorites. So there!

It was the, — the emphasis alas being on the word the, — designated basket for his morning nap: Thus, the reason as to why he was in it presently.

Being a cat, it was a known fact that he was quite finicky by nature. Therefore, in his cat-tish opinion, everything about this purr-ticular basket, and its purr-esent location, was considered to be absolutely purr-fect.

To begin with, it was lined with his favorite wooly sweater: The one that belonged to his beloved Mumzy.

Being white and ever so fuzzy, it happened to coincide quite well with his overall long, thick, and rather furry coat. When he found himself reclined in that basket, he knew that there was a certain look about him which brought great joy to all who would wish to observe his being.

Alas, it had always been his philosophy that if one could bring joy to others, then why should not one do so? Such was his nature.

Second, — he immensely enjoyed the fact that this basket was placed in the most perfect location — right next to the enormous fireplace: Thus, making it ever so warm, snuggly and cozy.

Third, — this being a rather brisk fall day, where else would one be, if one may be so bold as to ask? After all, did they want him to freeze his little fur off of his pudgy body? A most purr-posterous thought!

Of course, this was a bit of an exaggeration, he mused, but alas it could happen, — and no, — he was not being dramatic!

My goodness! Such nonsense he had to think of in order to have a proper excuse to stay as to where he was. It was much too much for one cat to bear.

Fourth, he continued to ponder, — a most wonderful fire was burning presently within the fireplace. It was absolutely yummy.

Oh! — So very yummy, in fact, that it was indescribable: Only, but only, a cat would understand. For it was a rather difficult concept to explain to mere humans.

Fifth, — at this particular time of the morning, the sun would come shining in with its golden rays. Ever so brightly, it would proceed to beam through the large, cut-glass windows in the most perfect way: Thus, making his soft, cream and brownish-black hued fur feel ever so nice and toasty.

Meowyyyymyyy! Ko-Ko sighed with a purr, placing his chin upon his bear-like paws. How very warm and comfortable it was just lying here, doing absolutely nothing. He pondered with a slight wiggle of his velvety nose.

Therefore, the matter at hand was rather simple. In his personal opinion, he had quite a few exceptionally good reasons as to why he was here in this particular part of the house — at this very hour of the day.

He most certainly hoped that his human Mama would have the common sense and the proper understanding, in order to fully comprehend this matter without any further explanation from the resident cat.

Simply put: He enjoyed it immensely, — and that was that!

So there! He pondered with a slight nod of his furry head.

Yes indeed, for Ko-Ko the Cat, life was good, and he was most happy.

‘Perhaps,’ he thought as he wiggled his ears, ‘if one were to think about it seriously, the master bedroom was indeed his favorite room. But alas, if one may ask, what was wrong with that?’ He questioned in silence as he widened his golden eyes.

Everybody preferred something or another: He just happened to prefer this room. Was that so strange a concept to comprehend?

Besides, if Mumzy insisted upon scurrying about like a squirrel, Ko-Ko could not understand as to why she could not simply take her fidgety scurrying elsewhere. After all, there were quite a few rooms in this spacious, three story, nineteenth century house, in order for one to scurry about in — without disturbing another creature!

Squinting his golden eyes, Ko-Ko stared back at Mumzy almost as if she were a large mouse. Come to think of it, — he just remembered: There was that other matter which was rather displeasing, he mused to himself as he wiggled his long, white whiskers.

‘Since when did it become their master bedroom?’ he thought curiously, twitching his velvety nose in a rather snooty manner.

Phffft! he muttered beneath his whiskers, — the emphasis strongly being on the word their by the way, — he pondered, as he twitched his nose once again.

Gazing at Mumzy with a most inquisitive look upon his snubby, doll-like face, Ko-Ko wiggled his tiny ears back and forth. For as long as he could remember, even when he was a kitten, he had always been under the impression that this was — his master bedroom!

After all, were not all cats the masters of their house? That is what his mother had taught him.

Humans were certainly curious creatures, he mused. Most certainly not at all like cats.

Cats were so very dignified: Except of course when they were pouncing.

But alas, the occasion for a good pounce was so very rare these days. Sadly, it did not arise frequently on a daily basis. Thus, — pouncing was always held for the most special of occasions.

Ko-Ko sighed