The faculty book club selected this one because it has gained so much attention lately, and because we wanted something light and quick, to balance the craziness surrounding the end-of-year activities, the construction, the packing, the classroom and library moves, and so on. Well, it WAS quick. Not too challenging. A real folksy language style, with vivid descriptions of northwest Iowa which made that whole area sound appealing. (Of course, fond memories of my own childhood spent in Iowa might have been evoked by those descriptions in the book.)As to my overall reaction to the book -- well, have you seen or read about that goofy dog Marley? This is another in a long series of memoirs featuring a family changed forever by a beloved pet. The family, in this case, is the staff of the public library in Spencer, Iowa -- and the entire population of Spencer, if the author is to be believed. Are you familiar with the term "anthropomorphism"? Giving human characteristics and personality to a non-human. Well, this book provides an excellent example. This cat, Dewey, thinks, has feelings and opinions, is empathetic to others in pain, has learned the daily schedule and plans to be at certain places at certain times, and practically speaks - his intentions and beliefs are so clear to those around him. The strength of his personality permeates the town, softens the stubborn opposition of the Village Board, raises money when it's needed, increases the number of visitors to the library, comforts the homeless, sick, and lonely -- well, you get the picture. Where would Spenser be without its beloved Library Cat?
In short -- yes, a quick and not-unpleasant read. I'm sure the people of Spenser, Iowa LOVED it. And it was okay.
2 out of 4 stars
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