Gotham Kitty opens with an interspecies confrontation on an alien planet as a Catusapien captured by the insect alien Brozians escapes before the ship sets down on Earth for refueling and supplies.

Human Allison Banes is in East Africa, working on her doctorate degree in zoology, when she comes upon what looks like a sleeping kitty, brings the little alien into her home, and unwittingly unleashes a force that involves an ancient curse and a threat to the Bantu tribe.

As earthling and alien each struggle with unfamiliar conditions and threats, 11-year-old African girl Cassidy Mkama finds herself involved in a fine blend of horror and sci-fi that will especially appeal to middle grades who like unexpected action and cats.

Can a little alien stranded on earth prove the catalyst for defeating an ancient threat? Fans of paranormal fiction will relish the growth of Kitty as she perceives her new world, finds a place in it, and uncovers a strength unusual for the females of her species.

Gotham Kitty also excels in a sense of family and community as Kitty is introduced to the Chagga people, whose prophecy helps events and mysteries become more understandable.

As Cassidy, Laila, and others confront the Evil Shadowy Figure, Allison's rescue and protection of Gotham Kitty is perhaps the only thing keeping complete disaster at bay.

The blend of sci-fi and paranormal elements raise the book's appeal to a wider audience. Despite its youthful characters, the story should reach into adult circles with its satisfying twists and turns and unusual premises.

Whimsical, involving, and filled with action, Gotham Kitty is recommended for a wide age range, who will find the mix of sci-fi and paranormal action inviting and original.