One of my favourite books in my early teens was Jennie by Paul Gallico. It describes a boy who is hit by a car and finds himself transformed into a tough street cat.  It is a realistic tale with great pathos.  To be a Cat is different. Barney Willow is an unhappy boy who wishes to be a cat because cats seem to have a happy go lucky life.  For a year, his father has been missing and when he goes to school he is bullied, not only by a horrible boy called Gavin Needle but also by the new Headmistress, Miss Whipmire.  These larger than life characters are reminiscent of Roald Dahl, but in every other way, this story is warmer and more reassuring.  Barney has a dear friend, Rissa, who always has his back. She is really worried about him and her family are also supportive. Barney’s Mum…