'Blackie' is the heart-warming story of an unlikely friendship between Australian writer Stephen Downes and Blackie, a back-fence stray. Stephen never much liked cats. But one day, his sons Patrick and Benny find three kittens at the bottom of the garden. Two of the strays -- Blackie and Fluffy -- soon become part of the family. Stephen falls in love with Blackie, a confident, friendly cat who keeps him company while he's working and takes naps on his study floor.But one day, Blackie's tail droops and he seems listless and despondent. From family vet to eye specialist to Melbourne University's prestigious vet research centre, Stephen pursues every avenue to cure Blackie's illness and keep his beloved cat alive.Deeply moving yet unsentimental, 'Blackie' is a beautifully written tale of love and companionship. In describing Blackie's life, illness and treatment, Stephen explores the intense experience of loving and being responsible for another living thing.

'Blackie' is the heart-warming story of an unlikely friendship between Australian writer Stephen Downes and Blackie, a back-fence stray. Stephen never much liked cats. But one day, his sons Patrick and Benny find three kittens at the bottom of the garden. Two of the strays -- Blackie and Fluffy -- soon become part of the family. Stephen falls in love with Blackie, a confident, friendly cat who keeps him company while he's working and takes naps on his study floor.But one day, Blackie's tail droops and he seems listless and despondent. From family vet to eye specialist to Melbourne University's prestigious vet research centre, Stephen pursues every avenue to cure Blackie's illness and keep his beloved cat alive.Deeply moving yet unsentimental, 'Blackie' is a beautifully written tale of love and companionship. In describing Blackie's life, illness and treatment, Stephen explores the intense experience of loving and being responsible for another living thing.

'Blackie' is the heart-warming story of an unlikely friendship between Australian writer Stephen Downes and Blackie, a back-fence stray. Stephen never much liked cats. But one day, his sons Patrick and Benny find three kittens at the bottom of the garden. Two of the strays -- Blackie and Fluffy -- soon become part of the family. Stephen falls in love with Blackie, a confident, friendly cat who keeps him company while he's working and takes naps on his study floor.But one day, Blackie's tail droops and he seems listless and despondent. From family vet to eye specialist to Melbourne University's prestigious vet research centre, Stephen pursues every avenue to cure Blackie's illness and keep his beloved cat alive.Deeply moving yet unsentimental, 'Blackie' is a beautifully written tale of love and companionship. In describing Blackie's life, illness and treatment, Stephen explores the intense experience of loving and being responsible for another living thing.