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A Cat Called Dog #1
A Cat Called Dog
Dog is a cat - the only problem is he doesn't behave like one. Instead he wags his tail, sticks out his tongue and yaps in a manner distinctly puppyish. Something has to be done; the pride of cats is at stake!
Against his better instincts, George, an old ginger tom, decides to take on the enormous task of teaching the confused kitten how to behave like a proper cat. In the company of the cheeky Eric, the mysterious and exotic Francois and the elegant Miss Fifi, George commences his teaching of the cat curriculum, including lessons on the feline 'Holy Trinity': eating, sleeping and washing.
But things do not go smoothly. Maybe Dog will find it impossible to change and unlearn all his bad habits?
A Cat Called Dog is an entertaining, funny and heart-warming novel that is all about cats and what they get up to when you're not looking! It is as wonderfully arch and droll and the memorable cat characters themselves, with some gloriously witty dialogue and scenes.
It could also be seen as a mild satire on human nature, riddled with subtexts, dealing with issues of identity, loyalty, betrayal, trust and friendship - like Animal Farm, with cats!
Against his better instincts, George, an old ginger tom, decides to take on the enormous task of teaching the confused kitten how to behave like a proper cat. In the company of the cheeky Eric, the mysterious and exotic Francois and the elegant Miss Fifi, George commences his teaching of the cat curriculum, including lessons on the feline 'Holy Trinity': eating, sleeping and washing.
But things do not go smoothly. Maybe Dog will find it impossible to change and unlearn all his bad habits?
A Cat Called Dog is an entertaining, funny and heart-warming novel that is all about cats and what they get up to when you're not looking! It is as wonderfully arch and droll and the memorable cat characters themselves, with some gloriously witty dialogue and scenes.
It could also be seen as a mild satire on human nature, riddled with subtexts, dealing with issues of identity, loyalty, betrayal, trust and friendship - like Animal Farm, with cats!
- GenresAdult
203 pages, Paperback
First published June 25, 2013
79 people want to read
About the author
Jem Vanston
6 books9 followersBorn in Dartford, Kent, I now live in Swansea, UK, where I am slave to two rescue cats, Bumble and Honey Cat.
I am a former English teacher and occasional freelance journalist and film producer, and also run my own editing company.
I am also a published songwriter (free listening to some of my songs on Soundcloud.com on the Jem Vanston page).
My books include Crump (2010) by PJ Vanston and A Cat Called Dog (2013) by Jem Vanston.
A child-friendly illustrated A Cat Called Dog (2015) and its sequel A Cat Called Dog 2 - The One with The Kittens (2017. Plus a dark satirical novel about reality TV called 'Rasmus - a television tale' by PJ Vanston.
'Santa Goes on Strike' - an illustrated Christmas poem picture book for both kids and adults - by Jem Vanston, was published in late 2018 to great acclaim, and looks like being a Christmas regular.
2020 saw a sequel to Crump published - 'Somewhere in Europe' has been called the 'Lucky Jim' of now. Set in a town very much like Swansea too. Gower, Caswell, Mumbles and Cardiff mentioned by name.
My first non-fiction book 'Thinking Time - 365 inspiring, amusing and thought-provoking quotes to get you through the year' published in late 2021. A perfect reflective read for all ages. Good for mindfulness.
In April 2022, my 9th book and first collection of poetry was published: 'The Loved Ones - a Collection of Pandemic Poems about Love and Loss. Very proud of that. Some poems are available to read for free on www.vanston.co.uk
The Nine Lives of Summer, my 10th book, was published on 1st March 2023. It is a moving, funny, emotional-rollercoaster of a diverse adventure with a cat living 9 lives (which means 8 deaths) in over a dozen countries around the world. For children age 7+ and adults.
I am a former English teacher and occasional freelance journalist and film producer, and also run my own editing company.
I am also a published songwriter (free listening to some of my songs on Soundcloud.com on the Jem Vanston page).
My books include Crump (2010) by PJ Vanston and A Cat Called Dog (2013) by Jem Vanston.
A child-friendly illustrated A Cat Called Dog (2015) and its sequel A Cat Called Dog 2 - The One with The Kittens (2017. Plus a dark satirical novel about reality TV called 'Rasmus - a television tale' by PJ Vanston.
'Santa Goes on Strike' - an illustrated Christmas poem picture book for both kids and adults - by Jem Vanston, was published in late 2018 to great acclaim, and looks like being a Christmas regular.
2020 saw a sequel to Crump published - 'Somewhere in Europe' has been called the 'Lucky Jim' of now. Set in a town very much like Swansea too. Gower, Caswell, Mumbles and Cardiff mentioned by name.
My first non-fiction book 'Thinking Time - 365 inspiring, amusing and thought-provoking quotes to get you through the year' published in late 2021. A perfect reflective read for all ages. Good for mindfulness.
In April 2022, my 9th book and first collection of poetry was published: 'The Loved Ones - a Collection of Pandemic Poems about Love and Loss. Very proud of that. Some poems are available to read for free on www.vanston.co.uk
The Nine Lives of Summer, my 10th book, was published on 1st March 2023. It is a moving, funny, emotional-rollercoaster of a diverse adventure with a cat living 9 lives (which means 8 deaths) in over a dozen countries around the world. For children age 7+ and adults.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 21, 2013
“There’s no use cutting off your tail to spite your bottom.”
I read this entire short novel with my mouth set in a permanent smile. I bet I looked like a freak, grinning like the village idiot; but trust me when I tell you it’s nearly impossible to read this cute little story without smiling the whole time or laughing out loud at the snark and puns so generously sprinkled throughout A Cat Called Dog. The title alone had me grinning!
Two things I noticed right away. The first is that it’s very much written in the fashion of Roald Dahl’s books, and secondly, for some strange reason I had Neil Gaiman narrating the story for me in my head. Go figure!
“A cat must behave like a cat, not like a dog-it is the way things are. And the way to achieve a change, and to help this kitten become a cat, is education.”
“Being un-heducated never done me no ‘arm”, muttered Eric.
“That’s a matter of opinion,” said George-rather cattily, Dog thought.
The characters each have their own distinct personalities, quirks and traits, and easily made their way into my heart. From George the sophisticated old ginger tom, Francois the well-traveled, refined tabby with a French accent, Eric the “un-heducated” stray, to a she-cat called Fifi. With their personalities at opposite ends of the spectrum, the laughs just kept coming. And, of course, the star of the show: Dog – a little kitten-cat who wags his tail when he’s happy, pokes his tongue out puppy-fashion, and whose brave is much bigger than he is. Together, this ragtag group of felines sets about to save the day, and in the process become the best of friends.
A Cat Called Dog is a delightfully charming read suitable for both cat- and dog lovers of all ages. It also makes for a wonderful bedtime story for younger readers. For the novice cat-person, this book can serve as a guide jam-packed with interesting cat facts and tidbits, albeit in the form of an entertaining story. I highly recommend this novel for anyone looking for an uplifting read that will brighten up their day and leave them with a different perspective on people (or two-legs, as humans are referred to in this little gem) and life in general, through the eyes of a feline. Though the story itself merits a four-star rating only, the author’s knowledge of cat behavior ups the aforementioned rating to a well-deserved five stars, which makes this a definite must-read!
I read this entire short novel with my mouth set in a permanent smile. I bet I looked like a freak, grinning like the village idiot; but trust me when I tell you it’s nearly impossible to read this cute little story without smiling the whole time or laughing out loud at the snark and puns so generously sprinkled throughout A Cat Called Dog. The title alone had me grinning!
Two things I noticed right away. The first is that it’s very much written in the fashion of Roald Dahl’s books, and secondly, for some strange reason I had Neil Gaiman narrating the story for me in my head. Go figure!
“A cat must behave like a cat, not like a dog-it is the way things are. And the way to achieve a change, and to help this kitten become a cat, is education.”
“Being un-heducated never done me no ‘arm”, muttered Eric.
“That’s a matter of opinion,” said George-rather cattily, Dog thought.
The characters each have their own distinct personalities, quirks and traits, and easily made their way into my heart. From George the sophisticated old ginger tom, Francois the well-traveled, refined tabby with a French accent, Eric the “un-heducated” stray, to a she-cat called Fifi. With their personalities at opposite ends of the spectrum, the laughs just kept coming. And, of course, the star of the show: Dog – a little kitten-cat who wags his tail when he’s happy, pokes his tongue out puppy-fashion, and whose brave is much bigger than he is. Together, this ragtag group of felines sets about to save the day, and in the process become the best of friends.
A Cat Called Dog is a delightfully charming read suitable for both cat- and dog lovers of all ages. It also makes for a wonderful bedtime story for younger readers. For the novice cat-person, this book can serve as a guide jam-packed with interesting cat facts and tidbits, albeit in the form of an entertaining story. I highly recommend this novel for anyone looking for an uplifting read that will brighten up their day and leave them with a different perspective on people (or two-legs, as humans are referred to in this little gem) and life in general, through the eyes of a feline. Though the story itself merits a four-star rating only, the author’s knowledge of cat behavior ups the aforementioned rating to a well-deserved five stars, which makes this a definite must-read!
September 12, 2013
This week I read A Cat Called Dog by Jem Vanston which I received free to review from Netgalley. It is a sweet tale of a young cat who was raised by dogs and therefore thinks and acts in a more doglike fashion. He is taken under the wing of a more mature cat named George, and together with George and his friends he must save George' s mistress from disaster.
The book is exactly what it claims to be; a light, fluffy tale which passed a couple of pleasant hours. Cat and dog lovers will certainly recognise some of the behavioural traits mentioned in the book. It is funny and engaging, but classic literature it is not.
I gave A Cat Called Dog three and a half stars out of five.
The book is exactly what it claims to be; a light, fluffy tale which passed a couple of pleasant hours. Cat and dog lovers will certainly recognise some of the behavioural traits mentioned in the book. It is funny and engaging, but classic literature it is not.
I gave A Cat Called Dog three and a half stars out of five.
September 3, 2013
Say you’re a cat. Not just any cat, but a cat raised by dogs, so…you think you’re a dog! You bark in a cat like way; you wag your tail, not when you’re angry, like most cats, but when you’re happy!
Now say you leave that house and happen upon an old tom who has a home, and who decides to help you by teaching you to become a cat.
So begins this delightful, well written short novel, A Cat Called Dog. Anyone who has ever owned a cat will relish the cat wisdom, the satire on humans, and the rich play with puns.
Now say you leave that house and happen upon an old tom who has a home, and who decides to help you by teaching you to become a cat.
So begins this delightful, well written short novel, A Cat Called Dog. Anyone who has ever owned a cat will relish the cat wisdom, the satire on humans, and the rich play with puns.
November 1, 2013
A Cat called Dog
This is one of the sweetest books I have ever read.
Being an animal person and not a people's person this book immediately appealed to me. Being a dog person and not a cat person made Dog my absolute hero.
With a cast like this who can complain. Dog needs to be more feline but he grew up with puppies. Eric needs manners but he believes he is only an alley cat. George needs to save his two-leg person but she disappointed him so severely that he gives up on the two-leg hairless race all together.
That is part of the plot. The sweetness came to its full force in the Cat Holy Trinity. Dog's willingness to learn and the way the author took cat behavior and wrote an enchanting story around it.
I guess it was meant for the younger spectrum of readers. Personally I will recommend it to all. It is sweet, it is expertly written and it had me hooked. I was so enchanted with the book that I convinced a friend of mine to purchase a copy even before I even finished it. So now that I am done…believe me - you want to read this book.
I put it on text-to-speech on Kindle for my mother to listen to as well. At the age of 78 she promptly claimed that this is an amazing book. So it really does transcend all age groups. Now. Again. Get your copy.
WaAr
This is one of the sweetest books I have ever read.
Being an animal person and not a people's person this book immediately appealed to me. Being a dog person and not a cat person made Dog my absolute hero.
With a cast like this who can complain. Dog needs to be more feline but he grew up with puppies. Eric needs manners but he believes he is only an alley cat. George needs to save his two-leg person but she disappointed him so severely that he gives up on the two-leg hairless race all together.
That is part of the plot. The sweetness came to its full force in the Cat Holy Trinity. Dog's willingness to learn and the way the author took cat behavior and wrote an enchanting story around it.
I guess it was meant for the younger spectrum of readers. Personally I will recommend it to all. It is sweet, it is expertly written and it had me hooked. I was so enchanted with the book that I convinced a friend of mine to purchase a copy even before I even finished it. So now that I am done…believe me - you want to read this book.
I put it on text-to-speech on Kindle for my mother to listen to as well. At the age of 78 she promptly claimed that this is an amazing book. So it really does transcend all age groups. Now. Again. Get your copy.
WaAr
October 25, 2013
"Cats are not dogs. And dogs are not cats. Even two-legs know that.
But Dog was a cat, because that was his name; he was a cat - a cat called Dog - and he was happy with that too."
Dog is a kitten on the cusp of cathood and with a bit of an identity crisis. He yaps and wags his tail, and lets his tongue hang out just like a dog. Other cats find this behaviour more than a little peculiar; in fact, it's down-right undignified. After all, everyone knows that cats are the noblest of creatures; they do not behave like the lowly dog.
When Dog makes the acquaintance of a staid and cultured old ginger tom named George, the old cat takes it upon himself to tutor Dog in proper behaviour with a little help and encouragement from Eric, a stray with a cockney accent, poor hygiene, and a broad sense of humour.
George has a two-legs whom he loves dearly but not all is right in George's once perfect world. There's a new man in his two-leg's life and he's clearly up to no good. The cats must save George's two-legs from the evil machinations of this man while not abandoning the Holy Trinity of a cat's life: eating, sleeping, and washing. But the cunning two-legs has a plan of his own to thwart the cats and soon much slapstick mayhem ensues.
The cats are all quite likeable and surprisingly multicultural; along with cockney, Queen’s English, and dog speak, there’s French, and then there’s the single female cat who speaks only with her beautiful emerald-green eyes or maybe she just lacks a translator, I wasn’t really clear on her. At any rate, lots of cats, lots of different accents. And therein lies my problem with the book. It often tries so hard to be a gentle treatise on the feline (and human) condition that, at times, it walks a fine line between sweet and twee – as I read I kept envisioning an animated Disney movie with lots of treacly pop songs and Justin Bieber or some equally annoying young pop star doing the voice-over for Dog, sort of Aristocats only without the aristo part.
Still, cat people will find much to like in this story. And, honestly, I did enjoy it but felt that it seemed more suited to a YA or even children’s audience than as a adult novel. I am not sure why it shouldn't be listed as such since some of the best books are found in YA these days. It’s cute and even, at times, charming. However, and in fairness, perhaps part of my problem lies in the comparisons to Animal Farm. When you set the bar that high, failure is almost inevitable. I didn’t learn anything profound about our furry friends or us but, then, again in fairness, I suspect, if I could understand my two cats (both given to me because, I think, people believe all women of a certain age and marital status are crazy cat ladies), the only thing they would be saying is “FEED ME!” and the accent would be strictly carnivorous plant.
But Dog was a cat, because that was his name; he was a cat - a cat called Dog - and he was happy with that too."
Dog is a kitten on the cusp of cathood and with a bit of an identity crisis. He yaps and wags his tail, and lets his tongue hang out just like a dog. Other cats find this behaviour more than a little peculiar; in fact, it's down-right undignified. After all, everyone knows that cats are the noblest of creatures; they do not behave like the lowly dog.
When Dog makes the acquaintance of a staid and cultured old ginger tom named George, the old cat takes it upon himself to tutor Dog in proper behaviour with a little help and encouragement from Eric, a stray with a cockney accent, poor hygiene, and a broad sense of humour.
George has a two-legs whom he loves dearly but not all is right in George's once perfect world. There's a new man in his two-leg's life and he's clearly up to no good. The cats must save George's two-legs from the evil machinations of this man while not abandoning the Holy Trinity of a cat's life: eating, sleeping, and washing. But the cunning two-legs has a plan of his own to thwart the cats and soon much slapstick mayhem ensues.
The cats are all quite likeable and surprisingly multicultural; along with cockney, Queen’s English, and dog speak, there’s French, and then there’s the single female cat who speaks only with her beautiful emerald-green eyes or maybe she just lacks a translator, I wasn’t really clear on her. At any rate, lots of cats, lots of different accents. And therein lies my problem with the book. It often tries so hard to be a gentle treatise on the feline (and human) condition that, at times, it walks a fine line between sweet and twee – as I read I kept envisioning an animated Disney movie with lots of treacly pop songs and Justin Bieber or some equally annoying young pop star doing the voice-over for Dog, sort of Aristocats only without the aristo part.
Still, cat people will find much to like in this story. And, honestly, I did enjoy it but felt that it seemed more suited to a YA or even children’s audience than as a adult novel. I am not sure why it shouldn't be listed as such since some of the best books are found in YA these days. It’s cute and even, at times, charming. However, and in fairness, perhaps part of my problem lies in the comparisons to Animal Farm. When you set the bar that high, failure is almost inevitable. I didn’t learn anything profound about our furry friends or us but, then, again in fairness, I suspect, if I could understand my two cats (both given to me because, I think, people believe all women of a certain age and marital status are crazy cat ladies), the only thing they would be saying is “FEED ME!” and the accent would be strictly carnivorous plant.
September 22, 2013
Barking mad but brilliant! 4 1/2 stars
Ok, so there are some rather farfetched moments in this book and the style of writing is a bit limited but the charm and humour that fills every page makes it such an enjoyable read that any flaws are totally forgivable. Getting a glimpse of the inner workings of the cat kingdom and realising that all cat kind think we are an inferior species in need of their constant company and guidance is hilarious and completely plausible. My only problem with this book would be to try and work out who you would market it for. When I came across it to review on Netgalley it stated it was a teen title and I can't see that many teens actively picking up such a book to buy. But I don't think it's quite suitable for anyone younger because of the use of descriptive language, philosophical outlooks on life and a little bit of the content. But put it in the pet department in a bookstore alongside such titles as Paw Tracks in the Moonlight or The World According to Bob and I know it would do very well! Any cat lover with a good sense of humour can appreciate what Vanston was trying to accomplish and find themselves grinning throughout as they read about the habits of their cats explained so perfectly. Do not take this book seriously. Enjoy it for the great laugh it is. For all those little habits you've noticed in your cat that's had you pausing in thought, wondering over what they are thinking as they turn their nose up the tray of food that seemed so perfectly acceptable to eat the night before, or if that look they just gave you was meant to say what you think it said. I loved it. I'm sure any other cat lover will too.
Ok, so there are some rather farfetched moments in this book and the style of writing is a bit limited but the charm and humour that fills every page makes it such an enjoyable read that any flaws are totally forgivable. Getting a glimpse of the inner workings of the cat kingdom and realising that all cat kind think we are an inferior species in need of their constant company and guidance is hilarious and completely plausible. My only problem with this book would be to try and work out who you would market it for. When I came across it to review on Netgalley it stated it was a teen title and I can't see that many teens actively picking up such a book to buy. But I don't think it's quite suitable for anyone younger because of the use of descriptive language, philosophical outlooks on life and a little bit of the content. But put it in the pet department in a bookstore alongside such titles as Paw Tracks in the Moonlight or The World According to Bob and I know it would do very well! Any cat lover with a good sense of humour can appreciate what Vanston was trying to accomplish and find themselves grinning throughout as they read about the habits of their cats explained so perfectly. Do not take this book seriously. Enjoy it for the great laugh it is. For all those little habits you've noticed in your cat that's had you pausing in thought, wondering over what they are thinking as they turn their nose up the tray of food that seemed so perfectly acceptable to eat the night before, or if that look they just gave you was meant to say what you think it said. I loved it. I'm sure any other cat lover will too.
November 4, 2013
“A Cat Called Dog” by Jem Vanston is a great little read about a cat named dog, whose manners undergo some refining by a ginger tom called George. It is a story about cats from the feline perspective and it has charm, wit and great humour. As dog owner and animal loving vegetarian I am probably the prime target audience for this lovely story about eating, sleeping and washing. The characters in the book are a great bunch and have unique characteristics, for example one speaks in Cockney while another has a French accent. It cleverly plays on the phenomenon of many pet owners to project human characters into animals. Warm, original and very entertaining!
January 18, 2016
For the full review, head to so long and thanks for all the fish
*SQUEES* Oh the adorableness!!! I don't think I've ever read cuter, funnier story than this.
A Cat Named Dog is a perfect book for all ages. Literally. It's perfect to read to your children who are old enough to have interest in being read chapter books (and they will laugh, and laugh, and laugh), it's perfect for children who are an intermediate level of reading, and it's perfect for adults. It's like the best kid movies - kids think they are the BEST, and adults love all the subtle humor that goes over the kids' heads.
There's an ensemble cast, primarily of cats, and have I mentioned yet how much I love ensemble casts (oh I dunno...only A BILLION TIMES). There's Dog - a strange adolescent cat that has the mannerisms of a dog, George - a loveable old ginger tom who has decided to take Dog under his tutelage, and Eric - a hilarious stray, and Francois - a cat who has traveled all over the world. These are the cats that make up the main cast. They are joined by The Lady, who is George's two legs and who he absolutely adores, as well as The Man (who absolutely does NOT have The Lady's best interests at heart!) Not only must the cats help teach Dog how to act like a cat, they must save The Lady from The Man's dastardly plans!
Here's why you should read this book:
1. It's adorable.
2. It's about cats.
3. It's very insightful about both cats and humans.
4. It's hilarious.
5. It's clever.
6. YOU DON'T NEED A REASON, JUST GO READ IT. Especially since the author mentioned in the intro that he would be interested in writing more books about the cats if interest was shown! So go show interest! I want more cat books! (And if they aren't about Dog and George, you might break my heart, Mr. Jem Vanston)
Merged review:
I had the fortune to read Jem Vanston's first A Cat Called Dog, which I loved so much that I was very excited to get my hands on this copy too! This one is a more condensed version of the former with the addition of some very cute illustrations that broke up the text nicely. This still has all the things I loved about the first version of this book - the humour, the observations and descriptions that any cat lover will immediately recognize, and the delightful characters. I will say that I think some of the cuts made interrupted the flow of the story here, so if I had to pick between the former copy and this one, I would choose the former copy. But any copy of this book is better than no copies of it, and if you have kids who are familiar with cats, the inclusion of illustrations in this one will definitely have a bigger appeal.
*SQUEES* Oh the adorableness!!! I don't think I've ever read cuter, funnier story than this.
A Cat Named Dog is a perfect book for all ages. Literally. It's perfect to read to your children who are old enough to have interest in being read chapter books (and they will laugh, and laugh, and laugh), it's perfect for children who are an intermediate level of reading, and it's perfect for adults. It's like the best kid movies - kids think they are the BEST, and adults love all the subtle humor that goes over the kids' heads.
There's an ensemble cast, primarily of cats, and have I mentioned yet how much I love ensemble casts (oh I dunno...only A BILLION TIMES). There's Dog - a strange adolescent cat that has the mannerisms of a dog, George - a loveable old ginger tom who has decided to take Dog under his tutelage, and Eric - a hilarious stray, and Francois - a cat who has traveled all over the world. These are the cats that make up the main cast. They are joined by The Lady, who is George's two legs and who he absolutely adores, as well as The Man (who absolutely does NOT have The Lady's best interests at heart!) Not only must the cats help teach Dog how to act like a cat, they must save The Lady from The Man's dastardly plans!
Here's why you should read this book:
1. It's adorable.
2. It's about cats.
3. It's very insightful about both cats and humans.
4. It's hilarious.
5. It's clever.
6. YOU DON'T NEED A REASON, JUST GO READ IT. Especially since the author mentioned in the intro that he would be interested in writing more books about the cats if interest was shown! So go show interest! I want more cat books! (And if they aren't about Dog and George, you might break my heart, Mr. Jem Vanston)
Merged review:
I had the fortune to read Jem Vanston's first A Cat Called Dog, which I loved so much that I was very excited to get my hands on this copy too! This one is a more condensed version of the former with the addition of some very cute illustrations that broke up the text nicely. This still has all the things I loved about the first version of this book - the humour, the observations and descriptions that any cat lover will immediately recognize, and the delightful characters. I will say that I think some of the cuts made interrupted the flow of the story here, so if I had to pick between the former copy and this one, I would choose the former copy. But any copy of this book is better than no copies of it, and if you have kids who are familiar with cats, the inclusion of illustrations in this one will definitely have a bigger appeal.
December 31, 2013
I requested this book from NetGalley because it looked like a super cute book about cats -- and that's exactly what it turned out to be!
The great things about A Cat Called Dog:
- The narration was lighthearted and humorous, told with what I can only describe as that distinct British storytelling flair. Think Harry Potter, but it's about cats instead of people. I could easily see this book made into a cartoon for children.
- The story was utterly CAT. I mean, it's clear that this author knows a lot about cats, and so I found myself nodding with agreement or giggling at the cuteness all throughout the story. If you want to learn the mysteries of cat life, read this book.
- The characterization was quite well-done. Each cat (and two-legs) was well-developed and had a distinct attitude and voice. Some of these did seem a bit overdone (I'm looking at you, Francois), but this also made it easy to know and appreciate each of them.
- The writing was cute and distinctive -- full of punny cat terms (cat-astrophe, purr-fect, etc.). This lent an hair of whole-ness to the story, but could sometimes get to be a bit much.
The problems I had with A Cat Called Dog:
- Though it was cute and distinctive, it had a tendency to feel like TOO MUCH. Like, after a while I just had to skip through all the French-cat-speak coming out of Francios, and roll my eyes at all the cat puns.
- It felt a bit wordy. Thought this is probably true of that narration style I mentioned as a good, thing, it can also drag a story down. As light and fun as the book was, I found that it took me way longer to read it than it should have, because I had to keep coming up for air.
- I couldn't figure out who the target audience was supposed to be. Obviously, this feels and (mostly) reads like a children's story, but there's no way a kid would sit through a story this long. Some of the themes were more adult, as well, leading to my confusion. I read a comment from the author stating that this book was intended for adults, but if that is the case, then I really think the narration style and punny-ness needs to be toned down.
Final Thoughts
Though I did have a few issues with this book, it was overall a pretty fun read. I'd perhaps recommend it to cat-lovers who don't mind reading children's stories and have some time to kill.
The great things about A Cat Called Dog:
- The narration was lighthearted and humorous, told with what I can only describe as that distinct British storytelling flair. Think Harry Potter, but it's about cats instead of people. I could easily see this book made into a cartoon for children.
- The story was utterly CAT. I mean, it's clear that this author knows a lot about cats, and so I found myself nodding with agreement or giggling at the cuteness all throughout the story. If you want to learn the mysteries of cat life, read this book.
- The characterization was quite well-done. Each cat (and two-legs) was well-developed and had a distinct attitude and voice. Some of these did seem a bit overdone (I'm looking at you, Francois), but this also made it easy to know and appreciate each of them.
- The writing was cute and distinctive -- full of punny cat terms (cat-astrophe, purr-fect, etc.). This lent an hair of whole-ness to the story, but could sometimes get to be a bit much.
The problems I had with A Cat Called Dog:
- Though it was cute and distinctive, it had a tendency to feel like TOO MUCH. Like, after a while I just had to skip through all the French-cat-speak coming out of Francios, and roll my eyes at all the cat puns.
- It felt a bit wordy. Thought this is probably true of that narration style I mentioned as a good, thing, it can also drag a story down. As light and fun as the book was, I found that it took me way longer to read it than it should have, because I had to keep coming up for air.
- I couldn't figure out who the target audience was supposed to be. Obviously, this feels and (mostly) reads like a children's story, but there's no way a kid would sit through a story this long. Some of the themes were more adult, as well, leading to my confusion. I read a comment from the author stating that this book was intended for adults, but if that is the case, then I really think the narration style and punny-ness needs to be toned down.
Final Thoughts
Though I did have a few issues with this book, it was overall a pretty fun read. I'd perhaps recommend it to cat-lovers who don't mind reading children's stories and have some time to kill.
September 17, 2013
Received the e-galley from NetGalley. Jem Vanston clearly loves and respects cats and has attempted to "heducate" humans about their way of life. While this novel has potential for being a charming tribute to cats, it unfortunately misses the mark. The story is too long and drawn out (despite its short length) and could benefit from a good editor; it tends to ramble rather than effectively build toward the key plot points. Some of characteristics were overdone, like the French cat's accent and language. It doesn't seem witty or sophisticated enough to engage most adults readers, though it does try. The tone reads more like a juvenile story. If the writing were tightened up it might work better as a short story. The author had mentioned that he is planning to do a version for children--if he takes out the references in this version that are irrelevant (or too mature) for kids and works with a good editor, there is potential for a fun and lovely piece for younger readers. A book like Ann Martin's A Dog's Life: Autobiography of a Stray is an excellent model (albeit a different animal) of writing a story from the animal's point of view.
November 14, 2013
3.25 out of 5 stars
This is a strange, odd, funny little book. It's really quite an enigma. The vocabulary is too complex for the younger reader and the story line is too simplified for an older child, and of course it is heavily, HEAVILY, laden with all sorts of tidy little morals.
This is exactly the sort of book that a mommy or daddy should read to their child before bedtime. A chapter book for kids 3-8 years of age. There are stopping points which make all sorts of sense; places where the story can leave off, for the child to ponder as he falls to sleep.
But it's not a multi-purpose book. No, no, no. Not like a hat, which can be called into service for any number of uses. Not like a string, a candle, a saucer... It's a limited thing, this book, but useful all the same.
This is a strange, odd, funny little book. It's really quite an enigma. The vocabulary is too complex for the younger reader and the story line is too simplified for an older child, and of course it is heavily, HEAVILY, laden with all sorts of tidy little morals.
This is exactly the sort of book that a mommy or daddy should read to their child before bedtime. A chapter book for kids 3-8 years of age. There are stopping points which make all sorts of sense; places where the story can leave off, for the child to ponder as he falls to sleep.
But it's not a multi-purpose book. No, no, no. Not like a hat, which can be called into service for any number of uses. Not like a string, a candle, a saucer... It's a limited thing, this book, but useful all the same.
September 26, 2014
This review was first published at M's Bookshelf - http://mssbookshelf.blogspot.be
A Cat Called Dog is an amazingly entertaining, heartwarming and funny read. Every cat owner has asked himself at least once what it would be like if their beloved pet could talk, or understand what you're saying to them. Well, A Cat Called Dog gives an endearing, funny view on "the world according to cats". It will make you laugh out loud. I promise you, you won't look at your furry pet the same, after reading this. Jem Vanston introduces some adorable characters: cats with their own "look" and personality, complete with accents! I was very pleasantly surprised, reading this book and I really enjoyed this relaxing, endearing story. A must read for cat lovers.
A Cat Called Dog is an amazingly entertaining, heartwarming and funny read. Every cat owner has asked himself at least once what it would be like if their beloved pet could talk, or understand what you're saying to them. Well, A Cat Called Dog gives an endearing, funny view on "the world according to cats". It will make you laugh out loud. I promise you, you won't look at your furry pet the same, after reading this. Jem Vanston introduces some adorable characters: cats with their own "look" and personality, complete with accents! I was very pleasantly surprised, reading this book and I really enjoyed this relaxing, endearing story. A must read for cat lovers.
October 6, 2013
Adorable and fun read although the French speech was a bit awkward and slowed things down a bit as more focus and attention was needed to read those parts. Perfect for the young advanced reader, joint reading adult and child(ren), or for a quick easy escape into an easy read for all readers. There were many laughter inducing moments and it leaves you with a smile. A great book for escaping the stressful world around you. The writing style isn't perfect but it's fitting for the book.
September 28, 2013
Super stylized language coming from the cats made this a complicated read that I didn't enjoy. I also don't know who the market is supposed to be. Too complicated for children, too naive for teens.
Confusing
Confusing
September 5, 2013
Cute book with lots of cat and dog puns but also included some human humor as well.
I received this ARV from net galley in return for an honest review.
I received this ARV from net galley in return for an honest review.
October 8, 2013
It's cute that it was written from the cats point of views, and the cat behaviour is quite accurate. The story was a little dry though, with all the lessons, but still worked.
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