Gustafson moves into a new rental during COVID and inadvertently ends up adopting thirty feral cats. What follows is a memoir of sorts, told through these cats and the world they inhabit together.
The writing is nuanced and honest, with a steady, observant voice that never feels performative. Gustafson draws parallels between the cats and society in a way that feels subtle and thoughtful, never spoon-feeding the reader. Instead, she leaves space for interpretation and reflection, which I really appreciated.
Her personal story is absolutely worth reading, but the larger themes she explores feel even more important. I was impressed by how she handled it all, and several chapters had me rethinking my own opinions and perceptions, which is my favorite kind of reading experience. Please challenge me.
I would absolutely recommend this book, and not just to fellow cat lovers like myself. Anyone could find something meaningful in her writing.
A book suggested by an IFPL staff member