Numina Reviews the World

Musical: Cats

2007-05-18T18:12:00.000-06:00

At first glance, watching adults in leotards crawl around on the floor and stroke each other doesn't seem like the kind of show you can bring a child to, but in this aspect at least, looks can be deceiving.

The playful costumes and catchy songs are great for entertaining the little ones, while the side comments and jaded references are enough to make adults feel as if they are sharing a joke.

There's a fluid plot revolving around a ceremony rebirth ceremony and its vary deserving feline with Macavity serving the role of villain. Despite his monstrous claws and wicked laugh, this bad cat of the neighborhood isn't going to cause nightmares, but a few angry mutters wouldn't go amiss as he makes off with the Master of Ceremonies and takes his place.

Overall, Cats is a fun musical that will have you singing about kitty mischief long after you've gone back to the human world.

Book Review: Contact by Carl Sagan

2007-05-17T17:10:00.000-06:00

Even back when it was published, Contact, a science fiction novel written by Carl Sagan telling of the events of a potential alien encounter, wasn't that innovative. No new technology, few looks into an alien mind, and by the end of the last page you were left with a surreal impression that it all could have been a dream. An ending that other books, both before and after, have used to varying effect.

Its very blandness made it stand out. Finally, a novel had come that masses could read without being bogged down by such things as personal taste. In this way it was open for everyone. Those who didn't like science fiction could find things in the mystery of the experience, while those who craved science fiction could novel at the change of pace. Contact bridged gaps, but it rarely fulfilled in any other way.

Contact's day of popularity has passed, but one can hope (or fear) that another nationally bridging novel will come again.

The Keeshound's Suitability As A Pet

2007-05-16T16:02:00.000-06:00

The Keeshond (pronounced KAYZ-hond) was bred in central Europe as a watch dog for Dutch barges. Every aspect of their body is bred for this purpose; from their compact size--ideal for cramped quarters, coloring and facial features--perfect for an alert, to their loud, deep bark. Their duties did not include attack, merely alerting the barge owner and discouraging potential thieves. As such, they are recognized as one of the only dog breeds not originally used for biting purposes, eg: hunting, attacking, carcass retrieval etc.

Keeshonden (the plural form of Keeshond) have long retired from the working dog status and now reside in the companion class. And what companions they make too. Lovingly referred to as "The Smiling Dutchman", Keeshonden are playful tricksters who often have the ability to literally laugh by crinkling their nose and upper lip showing just the small front teeth and then releasing it in an explosive sneeze. Due to their clingy nature and constant vigilance to their masters, they are intuitive and empathetic to emotions and when trained well can follow orders before the command is even carried out.

As a family dog they are exceptional with children, showing both the patience and tolerance often needed, while being a soothing companion for frazzled adults. And as long as their coat is brushed frequently and they are shaved in the spring, shedding will not be a problem. If brushing ever becomes a chore, consider it bonding. Make it fun in some way and the experience is sure to make the two of you life long friends.