You may think you know Judy Chicago — but it’s time to take another look. Kitty City is a celebration of Chicago’s life with these delightfully independent creatures. With a lavish design that evokes a contemporary version of illuminated manuscripts, Chicago tells this charming real-life story by adapting the concept of the Book of Hours, which first gained popularity in the early 1400’s as intricately illustrated private devotional books, containing texts and prayers for each hour of the day — meant to inspire and provide points of reflection for their owners.

Cat lovers will recognize the familiar routine. The day begins with ‘6 A.M: Cat Alarm Clocks’ and quickly moves to ‘7 A.M: Chowtime’ and ‘8 A.M: Kitty Clean Up.’ The cycle continues through snacks and grooming, naps and play before ending with ‘5 AM: Home is Where the Cat Is.’ Interspersed amount these hourly activities are thought-provoking ‘Feline Fact’ pages as well as vignettes that highlight a number of the kitty companions that Chicago has lived with since the early 60’s when she adopted her first stray kitten.

With exquisite full-color illustrations throughout — including 36 new Judy Chicago watercolors created for this project — Kitty City is breathtaking art in an exquisite package, a companion to be treasured by cat lovers and art aficionados everywhere.