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Cover of It's like this, cat

It's like this, cat

Written by Emily Neville

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FriendshipNew York (N.Y.)Fathers and sonsFamilyCats

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About this book

"It's Like This, Cat" by Emily Neville is a novel written in the early 1960s. The story centers around Dave, a young boy living in New York City, who has navigated the complexities of family life, friendships, and the vibrant yet challenging urban environment with his cat, aptly named Cat. The book captures themes of childhood exploration and the bonds formed between humans and animals, illustrating the trials and tribulations of growing up. The opening portion introduces readers to Dave's family dynamics, particularly the tensions between him and his father, alongside his quiet mother who suffers from asthma. Feeling misunderstood, Dave finds solace in his relationship with his cat and his quirky Aunt Kate, who offers a different perspective on life. The narrative sets the stage for Dave's adventures with Cat and hints at a story that will explore themes of identity, companionship, and the backdrop of city life. Amid various interactions, Dave's character is established as sensitive and observant, leading him to navigate both the joys and struggles that come with being a young boy in a bustling city.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in It's like this, cat, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 6 hours
  • intermediate
  • heartwarming
  • urban
  • coming-of-age

Emily Neville's Newbery Medal-winning novel, "It's Like This, Cat," follows Dave, a sensitive young boy navigating the complexities of adolescence in early 1960s New York City. Feeling misunderstood by his stern father and quiet mother, Dave finds profound solace and companionship in his stray cat, Cat, whom he adopts. The story chronicles their adventures through the bustling urban landscape, exploring themes of identity, family dynamics, and the unique bond between humans and animals. Through his experiences with Cat and interactions with various city dwellers, including his eccentric Aunt Kate, Dave gradually comes to terms with himself, his family, and the vibrant world around him, learning to appreciate the nuances of growing up.

“"It's like this, Cat. You just don't know what you're getting into."”

Key themes

Companionship and the Human-Animal Bond
The central theme revolves around the deep and unconditional bond between Dave and his cat, Cat. This relationship provides Dave with emotional support, a sense of responsibility, and a means to navigate his personal struggles and explore the world around him. Cat serves as a silent confidant and a source of comfort that Dave doesn't always find in his human relationships.
Coming of Age and Identity
The novel traces Dave's journey from a somewhat introverted and conflicted boy to a more mature and self-aware young man. He grapples with understanding himself, his place in his family, and his role in the bustling city. His experiences, particularly those triggered by Cat, force him to confront challenges and develop a stronger sense of self and responsibility.
Urban Life and Sense of Place
New York City is more than just a setting; it's an integral character in the story. The novel captures the unique atmosphere of the city in the early 1960s, portraying its energy, diversity, and occasional harshness. Dave's adventures with Cat often lead him through different neighborhoods and introduce him to various aspects of urban life, shaping his understanding of his surroundings and fostering a sense of belonging within the vast metropolis.

Worth discussing

How does Dave's relationship with Cat parallel or contrast with his relationship with his father? What does each relationship teach him?

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