Explore Life with Pets
Dewey: The Library Cat- A Book Review
You can never read too many books about pets! Whether a classic by James Herriot or a story on the canine hero’s of 9/11, there is always another great animal book waiting to be read! The book I am recommending today is Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World. And boy, does he ever! You will laugh, and if you are like me you will shed a bucket of tears over this fantastic feline! Dewey the Library Cat is one amazing ball of orange fluff!
How he became Dewey the library cat
Dewey’s story almost ends before it starts! The author, Vicki Myron, who is also the librarian, narrates his story as she remembers it. During a terrible snowstorm, Vicki just happens to go into the library to remove books from the overnight deposit bin. Inside, she discovers a kitten! He is only a few weeks old, and somehow he has managed to survive a night in the metal box in below-freezing temperatures. Barley alive and with frost bitten feet, Vicki rushes him to the vet.
One thing that really makes this story resonate is the genuine compassion of the author. Vicki is a single mother struggling to make ends meet and keep the small library in Spencer, Indiana open. You get the feeling that she has seen a lot of grief in her life, but instead of making her tougher it seems to make her more empathic towards others. Even when the Vet recommends euthanasia, she can’t bring herself to do it. He is a tough little kitten, and she is determined to give him a chance.
Dewey Readmore Books
The little bundle gets his name, in homage to the Dewey Decimal System! From the very beginning, everyone is surprised by how well he manages his injuries. Soon Dewey is spending his days wandering around the library and making new friends. Vicki quickly notices that Dewey is careful around the books (mostly), and doesn’t seem to bother people who are not interested in cats. Then she finds out that he has formed a special bond with several patrons, including a disabled child.
Dewey seems to have a unique ability to connect with people individually, and to sense what they need from him. He becomes the star attraction of the Spencer Library. As his fame grows and spreads, more reporters arrive to meet Dewey and Vicki. Soon, he is world-famous for being Dewey the Library Cat!
Not just a cat book
Some readers may object, but I enjoyed learning about Vicki’s life and the challenges she overcame. This story isn’t just about Dewey and his special qualities, it is also about the woman who saved him. We all face challenges in our lives, and yet somehow we have to go on. I think there is something I can learn from everyone’s personal story. Vicki’s struggles and problems resonate with me, and made the book a better read. Dewey was a unique cat, but Vicki is also a unique woman, and I am glad to have met her on the page, so to speak.
The story ends as all pet-stories will. And yet, the legacy of Dewey lives on. You can read more about the impact Dewey had in the sequel, Dewey’s 9 lives. It is on my list!
Dewey’s Story for Kids!
If you would like to share Dewey’s story with your children, there is a beautiful illustrated children’s edition you can get!
Is there an animal or pet-related book you think I should review? Drop a hint in the comments! I am always looking for a great read!
You can find my Top Ten Great Animal Books for Kids here!
This reminds me of my rescue cat who died last year. A great story for children and I bet Vicki and those at the library feel great this made it to publication. Thanks for sharing (: