How many of you remember the old Batman TV series from the 1960’s, featuring Julie Newmar as the original Catwoman?
On a recent Google search, I came across Julie Newmar’s first book, The Conscious Catwoman Explains Life on Earth. With a title like that, how could I not be intrigued?
I knew it wasn’t a cat book, but I asked for a review copy anyway. I usually run book reviews on Fridays, but this book is such a perfect fit for our Sunday Purrs feature, I decided to share it today.
The book claims to be (tongue in cheek) the self-help book to end all self-help books, and features Julie Newmar’s wit and wisdom on topics ranging from having what you want, explaining the divine gift of living, breathing and putting your will into what matters, to treasuring yourself, gardening, and how to have good taste in 30 seconds.
This is not a book you read from cover to cover (although the first time I read it, I did). It’s written in a series of little phrases, with an at times almost lyrical cadence. It often feels more like talking to a diverse group of people, with the conversation changing constantly from questions about the meaning of life to gardening advice.
If this sounds disjointed – it is. But it’s disjointed in an utterly charming, and uplifting way. You’ll find yourself nodding in recognition at some of the phrases, and reflecting on others. This little book is both lighthearted and profound, inspirational and amusing, serious and silly.
Here is a sampling of some of the little gems you’ll find in this book:
How to do the impossible: One step at a time. One half-step, quarter step. You’ll be amazed, given time, how far you’ve gone.
Be still more often.
Don’t bombard your ear and brain every minute.
Give Soul a chance to percolate to the surface of your awareness.
Thinking sick thoughts
doesn’t lead to better health.
What you think, you become.
You cannot fail. You just need more practice.
The book includes lots of photographs of Julie Newmar throughout her illustrious career.
This is the kind of book that you keep on your nightstand, to be opened to a random page, for some instant insight, encouragement or motivation. Treat yourself to this unique and unusual little book – you won’t regret it.
Julie Newmar dropped out of college to become a choreographer and dancer for Universal Studios. She was soon cast as one of the brides in the classic MGM musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. She went on to perform on Broadway. She guest-starred in numerous movies and tv shows. For more about Julie Newmar, please visit her websites Julie Newmar and Julie Newmar Writes.
I received a copy of this book from the author. Receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
You girls must be aware that wnhen we stop to think simple, open-hearted and having love as one of the most important things of life as a goal, phrases and images like these become very very true jewels, charming and kind, a pleasure that make us feel ALIVE! Tks Julie and Ingrid
Dear Ingrid,
I am so appreciative of your splendid review!
Julie Newmar
I’m so glad you enjoyed the review – what an honor to have you stop by here!
Love that Deb was seen as a Julie Newmar! She’s our catwoman (next to Mommy of course)!
Awww… thank you Ryker’s Boyz ‘n’ Allie!! I will gladly be the catwoman for our time!!!
BTW, you are one of less than a handful of cat blogs that I am voting for best cat blog…I have to also vote for 1 or 2 others 🙂
I just voted 🙂
Thanks, Caren!
sounds like something I would enjoy, I only books that are in the form of quips and quotes…this sounds like it is right up my alley!
I think you’ll like this one, Caren!
Well, clearly that titled captured my attention imediately!! When I was younger and watched Batman, I was completely enthralled by her and always wished I could be her! Funny, when I attended the CWA Conference last year, a gentleman came up to me where I was selling my book, and told me that I reminded him of Julie Newmar… perhaps it was the cat ears I was wearing, but the compliment thrilled me nonetheless! I will have to get this book! Thank you for the share!
I thought of you when I saw the cover, Deb!