Dive into the captivating tale of Tom the Cat and the extraordinary characters he encounters throughout his adventures. Set against the backdrop of bustling 18th-century London, Tom finds himself imprisoned, crosses paths with a daring highwayman, and reluctantly becomes a performer at the local fair. Amidst countless love affairs and a victorious battle, Tom's rebellious spirit ignites as he sets ablaze the house of a notorious mousetrap manufacturer. This groundbreaking novel marks the inception of feline literature, laying the foundation for all cat thrillers and tales to come. It's the very reason why male cats are affectionately referred to as "tomcats" in English, immortalizing the legacy of our fearless protagonist. A masterfully layered narrative, this work intertwines historical events with a timeless adoration for our feline companions. Delightfully whimsical, satirical, and bizarre, it's a must-read for literary cat enthusiasts. This newly set edition is accompanied by insightful notes that illuminate the text and enhance its accessibility, complemented by a wealth of historical cat illustrations. For more than 250 years it had been a mystery who wrote this short novel. In an exciting detective search for clues, the second part reveals that the anonymous author of the book is the legendary David Garrick. Renowned as the foremost actor and theater manager of the 18th century, Garrick's influence on modern acting techniques is indelible. The novel's hero was probably modelled on Hodge, the most prominent cat of the 18th century. His monument still stands in London today.