Wednesday, April 30, 2014
[Book Review] A STREET CAT NAMED BOB by James Bowen
Nonfiction/Human-Animal Relationships
Cathy reviews A Street Cat Named Bob: and How He Saved My Life by James Bowen (First US Edition, Thomas Dunne/St. Martin’s Press, 2013)
A true story about London street musician James Bowen finding an injured and malnourished orange tabby cat in the hallway corridor of his apartment building. This was the beginning of a close and wonderful friendship. James is on the road to recovery from heroin addiction, although he had been in somewhat of a holding pattern. Knowing he is responsible for Bob’s well-being encourages James to take the final step in his drug addiction program.
I was drawn to the book because of my love for cats, but the story covers so many facets of life: being homeless, addiction recovery, mending fences with family. James, who at the time could barely take care of himself, rescues Bob, who in turn rescues him. Bob goes out busking with James in Covent Garden & other London spots, and has become quite the celebrity.
This is a sweet story with a happy ending. Check out the wonderful videos of the pair on You Tube.
Cathy, Bartlett Library
Labels: Human-animal relationships, Memoir, Nonfiction, Reviews by Cathy Brooks
[permalink] posted by Memphis Reads : 9:00 AM
