The Case of the Careless Kitten Summary of Erle Stanley Gardner's Book

The Case of the Careless Kitten: A Perry Mason Mystery

The Case of the Careless Kitten by Erle Stanley Gardner is a captivating mystery novel that falls within the genres of Mystery, Fiction, and Crime. First published on March 1, 1942, this book is the twenty-first installment in the Perry Mason series. In this intriguing tale, criminal defense attorney Perry Mason is faced with unraveling the connection between a poisoned kitten, a murder, and a voice from the past. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a web of deception and suspense that will keep them on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Characters

The book features a cast of compelling characters who each play a crucial role in the unfolding mystery.

- Perry Mason: The brilliant and determined criminal defense attorney who takes on the case involving Helen Kendal and her mysterious uncle Franklin. Perry Mason is known for his unconventional methods and unwavering commitment to seeking justice for his clients.

- Helen Kendal: A young woman who finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation after receiving a phone call from her long-lost uncle Franklin. Helen seeks Perry Mason's help to prove her innocence and unravel the mysteries surrounding her family.

- Della Street: Perry Mason's loyal and resourceful secretary who assists him in his investigations and helps uncover crucial clues that lead to the truth.

- Paul Drake: A skilled private investigator who works closely with Perry Mason to gather evidence and piece together the puzzle of the case.

- Franklin Kendal: Helen's enigmatic uncle whose sudden reappearance sets off a chain of events that lead to murder and intrigue.

Detailed Summary

The story begins when Helen Kendal receives a mysterious phone call from her uncle Franklin, who has been presumed dead for many years. Franklin urges Helen to contact Perry Mason, the renowned criminal defense attorney, for help. Shortly after their conversation, a man is found dead, and Helen becomes the prime suspect in his murder.

Meanwhile, Helen's kitten survives a poisoning attempt, as does her aunt Matilda, who has always believed that Franklin was alive despite his disappearance. Perry Mason takes on Helen's case and begins to unravel the complex web of connections between the poisoned kitten, the murder, and the voice from the past.

As Perry delves deeper into the case, he faces numerous obstacles and risks disbarment for his unorthodox methods. With the help of Della Street, Paul Drake, and a clever but careless kitten, Perry strives to outwit the police and solve the mystery that will prove Helen's innocence.

Analysis

The Case of the Careless Kitten is a masterfully crafted mystery novel that showcases Erle Stanley Gardner's talent for creating intricate plots and compelling characters. The story is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Perry Mason's sharp wit and keen investigative skills make him a formidable protagonist who is determined to uncover the truth at all costs.

Gardner's writing style is engaging and suspenseful, drawing readers into the world of Perry Mason and the intriguing case he must solve. The seamless blend of mystery, crime, and drama makes this book a page-turner that will appeal to fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

Overall, The Case of the Careless Kitten is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a classic mystery novel with a touch of suspense and intrigue. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Perry Mason series or discovering it for the first time, this book is sure to captivate and entertain.

Final thoughts

To conclude, The Case of the Careless Kitten is a thrilling mystery novel that will keep readers enthralled from beginning to end. With its complex plot, intriguing characters, and unexpected twists, this book is a standout in the Perry Mason series. If you enjoy a good mystery with a touch of crime and suspense, be sure to pick up a copy of The Case of the Careless Kitten and experience the brilliance of Erle Stanley Gardner's storytelling.

So, if you're looking for a riveting read that will keep you guessing, don't hesitate to delve into the world of Perry Mason and uncover the truth behind the poisoned kitten, the murdered man, and the mysterious voice from the past. Purchase the complete book or listen to the audiobook to immerse yourself in this thrilling tale of deception and justice. Happy reading!

9780345362230 (ISBN10: 0345362233)