It's Like This, Cat

Emily Cheney Neville's Newbery Medal-winning novel, 'It's Like This, Cat,' follows 14-year-old Dave Mitchell as he comes of age in New York City. Tired of his parents' arguments, Dave adopts a stray cat named Cat, which inadvertently introduces him to a diverse cast of characters, including an eccentric old woman, a troubled older boy, and his first girlfriend. The story explores complex themes of family dynamics, the challenges of adolescence, the importance of friendship, and personal growth. Parents will appreciate the nuanced portrayal of father-son conflict and the journey toward understanding and empathy.

A fourteen-year-old New York boy and his relationships with a stray tomcat, an eccentric old woman, a troubled older boy, the first girl with whom he has been friends, and his father.