"It's Like This, Cat" by Emily Cheney Neville is a novel published in 1963. The main character of the story is Dave Mitchell, a 14-year-old boy who is growing up in New York. Dave lives with his father. Dave's refuge after a clash with his father is with Kate, a neighbor whose apartment is filled with stray cats she loves. Dave adopts one of the stray cats and names it "Cat" and takes him home. "Cat" brings joy and also brings some good adventures to Dave’s life. Dave had contact with several new people because of Cat, including a boy named Tom, and Dave's first girlfriend, Mary and Nick. During the story, Dave learns valuable life lessons about responsibility, loyalty, and the complexities of relationships.
A central theme in "It's Like This, Cat" is the process of maturing into adulthood. At the beginning of the novel, Dave is portrayed as somewhat irresponsible and disconnected from his surroundings. However, as the story progresses, his relationship with Cat and his interactions with others causes him to take on more responsibility. For instance, Dave's decision to rescue Cat from a difficult situation shows his growing sense of empathy and maturity. Additionally, his evolving friendship with Tom also highlights Dave's increasing ability to understand others' perspectives and navigate complex emotions.
Family also plays a significant role in Dave's development throughout the novel. Dave and his father struggle to communicate effectively, they are often resorting to terse conversations or misunderstandings. The introduction of Cat into their lives serves as a catalyst for change, which brings them closer together as they bond over their shared responsibility for the cat's well-being. Dave's interactions with Mary, also provide him with a glimpse into different family dynamics, prompting him to reflect on his own relationships and appreciate the support system he has.
Another prominent theme in the novel is friendship and loyalty. Dave's friendships with Tom, Mary, and Nick illustrate different facets of loyalty and trust. His friendship with Tom grows stronger as they support each other through personal challenges. Dave's loyalty to Cat is unwavering throughout the story, it demonstrates his ability to commit to something beyond himself. The novel portrays friendship not only as a source of companionship but also as a means of personal growth and understanding.
"It's Like This, Cat" is a timeless coming-of-age story that tells us a lot of things. Through Dave's journey of self-discovery and maturity, Emily Cheney Neville explores themes of responsibility, family dynamics, and the importance of meaningful relationships. The novel's setting in New York City provides a vivid backdrop against which Dave's experiences unfold, and adds depth to the narrative. Overall, "It's Like This, Cat" is an insightful novel that captures the challenges and triumphs of adolescence, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in stories of personal growth and discovery.
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