I Am A Cat

by Soseki Natsume
I Am A Cat cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical:
  • ID: 423
  • Added: 2025-09-11
  • Updated: 2025-09-11
  • Formats: 7
  • Reviews: 3
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Waterstones
Paperback • £16.99
Reviews
somesmart.com · 2025-09-11
insightful 4.00

The book is highly recommended despite occasionally dragging due to its lack of a strong plot, with its rich observations and satirical tone making it a worthwhile read.

The reviewer expresses a strong recommendation for 'I Am a Cat,' highlighting its rich, satirical observations of society. Although the narrative sometimes drags and lacks a cohesive plot, these drawbacks do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment. The episodic nature allows for detailed character studies and humorous social commentary, which provide depth and entertainment. The reviewer appreciates the novel's wit and insight, suggesting it is a rewarding read for those interested in cultural satire and literary nuance.

Quick quotes

    If it is not clear from the 2400+ words I have written about I Am a Cat, I would strongly recommend this book.

    It does drag at times, due to its lack of a strong plot.

    The rich observations and satirical tone make it worthwhile.

The Pine-Scented Chronicles · 2023-05-27
engaging 4.20

The story is richly allegorical and highly readable, portraying a stray cat's observations of a modest family and their social circle, highlighting the interactions and personalities of each character.

The review emphasizes the novel's allegorical nature and its engaging readability. The cat, a stray kitten taken in by a modest family, narrates the story, capturing the dynamics and peculiarities of the household and their acquaintances. The characters, such as Mr. and Mrs. Sneaze and their friends, are portrayed with distinct traits that enrich the social satire. The interactions among these characters form the core of the narrative, reflecting cultural and social commentary through the cat's perspective. This approach makes the novel a thoughtful yet accessible exploration of human nature and society.

Quick quotes

    Richly allegorical and delightfully readable, I Am a Cat is the chronicle of an unloved, unwanted, wandering kitten who spends all his time observing his adoptive family.

    The family never gave the cat a name, an indication that his presence was neither acknowledged nor welcomed by the members of the household.

    Snatches of interactions between these individuals formed the backbone of the story.

Litro Magazine · 2021-02-14
thoughtful 3.80

The novel can be a challenging and sometimes exhausting read, but persevering through it offers a rewarding payoff that makes it worthwhile.

This review acknowledges that 'I Am a Cat' might feel demanding at times due to its length and style, which could test the reader's patience. However, it strongly encourages readers to stick with the book because the eventual payoff is satisfying and enriching. The novel's unique narrative voice and satirical depth provide a distinctive literary experience that rewards those who persist. The review suggests that the book's cultural and philosophical insights make it a valuable and memorable read despite its occasional difficulty.

Quick quotes

    Did I enjoy I Am a Cat? While the work can be a slightly exhausting read, I'd definitely advise anyone to stick with it as the payoff of the ...

    The payoff of the book is worth the effort despite its challenges.

    It's a unique literary experience that offers cultural and philosophical insights.

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