Tigger, who is alternately known as Miss Tiggs, was originally hired as Chief Mouser (a very important job at a book store), but quickly progressed to Director of Public Relations.

Prior to setting up shop at Companion Book, Tigger was unemployed and rather bored. Paul Kirkpatrick, owner of Companion Book, approached her and offered her a job at the book store.

"It seemed like a good experience," she miaowed, "I was ready for something new."

Companion Book opened their doors in December 2004, and they are now going strong.

As for Paul, the store's owner, he had an engineering and public sector background, and had also taught at the university level - but he reached a point in his life when he realized that none of that was quite what he wanted.

"It dawned on me! Bookstores!" he said. "I loved books and read a lot. And, despite the advent of the Internet, people are reading more."

So, Paul and Tigger established a used book store that was set up like a new one and also featured new books. According to Paul, "It's well lit, well laid out, and it doesn't smell funny," he joked.

Best of all, Companion Book has a great team of hard working, friendly folks.

So far, the hours are long and the work is hard, but Paul is enjoying his new enterprise. "Other than having all the books I have ever wanted and space to put them in, I really love meeting all the people. There is such an incredible range of people."

Paul keeps himself busy with the bookstore and tries to squeeze in bridge, downhill skiing, and "handyman stuff."

As for Tigger, when she isn't busy keeping the mice at bay, she occupies herself by batting little fuzzy things around and stalking customers down the aisle.

"If they're kneeling, I'll crawl right up on them," Tigger said. "I like people."