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Homer's Odyssey: A Fearless Feline Tale, or How I Learned about Love and Life with a Blind WonderCat
ONCE IN NINE LIVES, SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS.
The last thing Gwen Cooper wanted was another cat. She already had two, not to mention a phenomenally underpaying job and a recently broken heart. Then Gwen’s veterinarian called with a story about a three-week-old eyeless kitten who’d been abandoned. It was love at first sight.
Everyone warned that Homer would always be an “underachiever.” But the kitten nobody believed in quickly grew into a three-pound dynamo with a giant heart who eagerly made friends with every human who crossed his path. Homer scaled seven-foot bookcases with ease, survived being trapped alone for days after 9/11 in an apartment near the World Trade Center, and even saved Gwen’s life when he chased off an intruder who broke into their home in the middle of the night. But it was Homer’s unswerving loyalty, his infinite capacity for love, and his joy in the face of all obstacles that transformed Gwen’s life. And by the time she met the man she would marry, she realized that Homer had taught her the most valuable lesson of Love isn’t something you see with your eyes.
This edition contains a new afterword and an excerpt from Gwen Cooper's Love Saves the Day.
The last thing Gwen Cooper wanted was another cat. She already had two, not to mention a phenomenally underpaying job and a recently broken heart. Then Gwen’s veterinarian called with a story about a three-week-old eyeless kitten who’d been abandoned. It was love at first sight.
Everyone warned that Homer would always be an “underachiever.” But the kitten nobody believed in quickly grew into a three-pound dynamo with a giant heart who eagerly made friends with every human who crossed his path. Homer scaled seven-foot bookcases with ease, survived being trapped alone for days after 9/11 in an apartment near the World Trade Center, and even saved Gwen’s life when he chased off an intruder who broke into their home in the middle of the night. But it was Homer’s unswerving loyalty, his infinite capacity for love, and his joy in the face of all obstacles that transformed Gwen’s life. And by the time she met the man she would marry, she realized that Homer had taught her the most valuable lesson of Love isn’t something you see with your eyes.
This edition contains a new afterword and an excerpt from Gwen Cooper's Love Saves the Day.
299 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2009
776 people are currently reading
12146 people want to read
About the author
Gwen Cooper
49 books558 followersGwen Cooper is the New York Times bestselling author of the memoirs "Homer's Odyssey: A Fearless Feline Tale, or How I Learned About Love and Life with a Blind Wonder Cat" and "Homer: The Ninth Life of a Blind Wonder Cat," and the novels "Love Saves the Day" and "Diary of a South Beach Party Girl."
Her latest project is "Curl Up with a Cat Tale," a first-of-its-kind monthly short-story series, featuring an all-new--and all-true!--humorous and heartfelt tale each and every month about life with her world-famous fur family. (See my website, www.gwencooper.com/cat-tales, for more details and a 60% discount!). Her work has been published in nearly two dozen languages.
Gwen lives in Manhattan with her husband, Laurence. She also lives with her two perfect cats--Clayton the Tripod and his litter-mate, Fanny--who aren't impressed with any of it.
Her latest project is "Curl Up with a Cat Tale," a first-of-its-kind monthly short-story series, featuring an all-new--and all-true!--humorous and heartfelt tale each and every month about life with her world-famous fur family. (See my website, www.gwencooper.com/cat-tales, for more details and a 60% discount!). Her work has been published in nearly two dozen languages.
Gwen lives in Manhattan with her husband, Laurence. She also lives with her two perfect cats--Clayton the Tripod and his litter-mate, Fanny--who aren't impressed with any of it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,108 reviews
January 17, 2020
Sometimes you see little kids clutching books at the library and dramatically telling their friends, "OH MY GOD THIS IS THE BEST BOOK EVER" and I kind of feel that way about Homer's Odyssey, but I will try to have more dignity about it.
ZOMG! A TINY BLIND KITTEH!
Now that I've gotten that out of my system, I will say that this is different from the roughly one million other books about cats who teach their humans about love and life in that the author Gwen Cooper is not, how you say, socially awkward, and also she's a good, mostly unsentimental writer. Which is not to say that I didn't spend all of the chapters, "Mucho Gato," "A Hole in the Sky" and "September 12, 2001" in tears, but I cry all the time so you can't go by me.
This is at heart a memoir of Cooper's mid-twenties to mid-thirties, built around Homer's story and that of her two other cats, Scarlet and Vashti. According to Cooper, Homer taught her that if you have the courage to leap blindly into the unknown then wonderful things can happen, but you also have to credit Cooper with being open to that idea. She just seems like a very cool person -- funny and smart and someone you'd want to hang out with -- and she makes it okay to be a little bit of a crazy cat lady.
ZOMG! A TINY BLIND KITTEH!
Now that I've gotten that out of my system, I will say that this is different from the roughly one million other books about cats who teach their humans about love and life in that the author Gwen Cooper is not, how you say, socially awkward, and also she's a good, mostly unsentimental writer. Which is not to say that I didn't spend all of the chapters, "Mucho Gato," "A Hole in the Sky" and "September 12, 2001" in tears, but I cry all the time so you can't go by me.
This is at heart a memoir of Cooper's mid-twenties to mid-thirties, built around Homer's story and that of her two other cats, Scarlet and Vashti. According to Cooper, Homer taught her that if you have the courage to leap blindly into the unknown then wonderful things can happen, but you also have to credit Cooper with being open to that idea. She just seems like a very cool person -- funny and smart and someone you'd want to hang out with -- and she makes it okay to be a little bit of a crazy cat lady.
June 16, 2024
Gwen Cooper with Homer
At 24-years-old Gwen Cooper was already "mommy" to two cats, Vashti and Scarlett. So when a veterinarian friend asked Gwen to consider adopting a blind black two-week old kitten, Gwen was hesitant....this seemed like a lot to take on. But the sweet loving kittie immediately won Gwen's heart and "Homer" joined the family in the South Beach neighborhood of Miami.
Vashti, Scarlett, and Homer (left to right)
Homer
Despite his inability to see, Homer was anything but a 'fraidy cat.' The intrepid kitten was everywhere, investigating everything. He climbed bookcases, drapes, furniture, and people; he got into kitchen cabinets and unerringly found unopened cans of tuna ('feed me this'); he constantly tried to sneak up on Scarlett - from directly in front - not understanding how she always knew he was there; he loved to play fetch with his favorite stuffed toy - a worm with a bell; he made friends with almost everyone he met; Homer even viciously attacked a burglar and chased him out of Gwen's apartment. In fact Homer immeasurably enhanced Gwen's life.
Homer was a fearless cat
This memoir is Gwen's story as much as Homer's. Inspired by Homer's joie de vivre and indomitable spirit, Gwen - broke and needing a better paying job - moved back in with her parents (not easy). She took a series of intern and volunteer positions and finally came out on the other side with highly marketable skills - and the means to get her own place again.
Homer enhanced Gwen's life
Over time Gwen and the cats moved four times, which is daunting for a human, never mind a blind cat. But Homer always adapted quickly, making his way from his food and litter box (the first things Gwen 'showed him') to investigate every millimeter of his new dwelling.
Homer met Gwen's friends and a few guys she dated (one who hissed at /frightened Homer was thrown out immediately) and almost everyone loved the little black cat. In one amusing anecdote, Gwen's ex-boyfriend George was babysitting Homer for a few days when Gwen popped by for a visit. To Gwen's horror George's friend - with baby Homer lying on the palm of his outstretched hand - was spinning around, making helicopter noises, and affectionately calling Homer 'El Mocho' (something like stumpy). When Gwen made a fuss, Homer was put down. But the kitten immediately ran over to his playmate and pawed him....'more more more'.
In time Gwen moved to New York for work and got an apartment near the World Trade Center. When the twin towers came down on 9/11, Homer and his sister cats were stranded in their apartment when the district was blocked off for safety. Gwen's tale of trying to get back to her cats with food and water - which took days - was as harrowing a story as I've read in some thrillers.
Gwen struggled through the chaos of 9/11 to get back to her cats
After some years Gwen met her future husband Laurence (not a spoiler). Laurence's big booming voice intimidated Homer, who avoided this barrel-chested intruder. Nevertheless, Homer's super-hearing alerted him when Laurence opened the refrigerator to make a turkey sandwich - and the cat immediately rushed over to get (more than his share) of the meat. Laurence had to resort to loudly running the faucet so he could sneak out the sandwich fixings, then hide in the bathroom to make his snack (ha ha ha). 😉
The book doesn't focus solely on Homer and there are plenty of fun stories about the other cats. Scarlett for instance divided the world into mom (Gwen) - who she loved; and everyone/everything else - who she had little use for. And Vashti, a beautiful shy cat, seduced dog-lover Laurence with her adoring gazes and affectionate behavior.
I always like books with endearing pets (in real life or in fiction) and this is a very good one. Highly recommended for animal lovers.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
March 7, 2023
Book club choice for March--memoir by Gwen Cooper
I adored this story about Homer, the blind cat. So many life lessons.
We can all do with a bit more of Homer's outlook on life--his bravery, his fearlessness, his curiosity.
The chapter about 9/11 had me in tears, it brought back memories. I cannot even imagine what it must have been like to live in New York during that time, but her vivid depiction gave me a glimpse.
If you're looking for a meaningful, uplifting memoir, especially if you like cats, this is an excellent choice.
I adored this story about Homer, the blind cat. So many life lessons.
We can all do with a bit more of Homer's outlook on life--his bravery, his fearlessness, his curiosity.
The chapter about 9/11 had me in tears, it brought back memories. I cannot even imagine what it must have been like to live in New York during that time, but her vivid depiction gave me a glimpse.
If you're looking for a meaningful, uplifting memoir, especially if you like cats, this is an excellent choice.
November 17, 2020
Oh my! I love this book! Homer’s Odyssey is a memoir of sorts about a tiny black cat who loses both his eyes at 2 weeks old. The people who brought him to a kind veterinarian do not want him so she treats him the best she can and then reaches out to numerous people trying to find him a home. It looks as if he is going to end up in a shelter with little chance of escaping euthanasia when a young woman named Gwen takes a leap of faith and brings him home. She names him Homer, named after the blind writer of The Odyssey. This tiny kitten will change Gwen’s life.
What an inspirational story about a simply amazing cat! Who knew a sightless kitten could be so self-assured; so joyful; so full of love, life, and chutzpah; and so imbued with wisdom? Gwen credits Homer with helping her make difficult decisions that led to her achieving goals she never thought possible. She also knows he saved her life in more than one way.
Homer has many wonderful moments and experiences, but also survives some very tense situations. He reminds me so much of my own little black cat Eddie, and because of that, at one point I had to stop reading as I was feeling too much angst for what was happening with Homer and was transferring those feelings to my Eddie. I was able to come back the next day though and see Homer through the crisis.
This memoir is a testament to the wonder, the elation, and the blessings a special needs animal can bestow on a pet parent. Two years ago, our 7-year-old Milly cat was taken into emergency surgery at Iowa State University Small Animal Hospital for two “Hail Mary” procedures on successive nights to save her life. Both her ureters were blocked with kidney stones preventing urination and causing severe renal failure. Over those two nights Milly had her clogged ureters replaced by plastic catheters. The vets were amazed that she came through and started passing urine again. However, two nights later she suffered cardiac arrest. She was brought back by CPR, but her lungs were severely bruised by the life-saving procedure, leading to a 4-day stay in an oxygen box. She spent two weeks recuperating in the kitty ICU before coming home for several more months of healing. Her journey earned Milly a spot on the Iowa State “Wall of Fame.” She seems incredibly grateful for the life-saving events, dispensing kisses, hugs, and snuggles in grand amounts. She makes frequent visits to Iowa State for followup visits. She is quite famous there and many wonderful vets, residents, vet students, vet techs, medical record people and receptionists always meet us with big smiles and hugs for us and Milly. But best of all is all the love she gives, the trust she shows and the inspiration she kindles in us daily.
We also have Eddie boy, a small fellow with FIV (feline deficiency virus, the kitty counterpart to HIV) infection whom we watch closely because of his compromised immune system. He gets along beautifully with our other five cats so has a safe home with us. He rewards us every day with lap time, under-the-cover snuggles, multitudes of purrs, and his gregarious and sweet personality. He is also Milly’s personal groomer. Our special needs kitties are the lights of our lives and couldn’t be loved more.
If you are an animal lover (or even if you aren’t), you will enjoy Homer’s emotive, poignant, at times heartbreaking, yet rousing and ultimately uplifting memoir. I am pleased to see Gwen has a couple of other books that feature Homer, and I will check those out. I highly recommend Homer’s Odyssey for all readers for a deeply satisfying read.
What an inspirational story about a simply amazing cat! Who knew a sightless kitten could be so self-assured; so joyful; so full of love, life, and chutzpah; and so imbued with wisdom? Gwen credits Homer with helping her make difficult decisions that led to her achieving goals she never thought possible. She also knows he saved her life in more than one way.
Homer has many wonderful moments and experiences, but also survives some very tense situations. He reminds me so much of my own little black cat Eddie, and because of that, at one point I had to stop reading as I was feeling too much angst for what was happening with Homer and was transferring those feelings to my Eddie. I was able to come back the next day though and see Homer through the crisis.
This memoir is a testament to the wonder, the elation, and the blessings a special needs animal can bestow on a pet parent. Two years ago, our 7-year-old Milly cat was taken into emergency surgery at Iowa State University Small Animal Hospital for two “Hail Mary” procedures on successive nights to save her life. Both her ureters were blocked with kidney stones preventing urination and causing severe renal failure. Over those two nights Milly had her clogged ureters replaced by plastic catheters. The vets were amazed that she came through and started passing urine again. However, two nights later she suffered cardiac arrest. She was brought back by CPR, but her lungs were severely bruised by the life-saving procedure, leading to a 4-day stay in an oxygen box. She spent two weeks recuperating in the kitty ICU before coming home for several more months of healing. Her journey earned Milly a spot on the Iowa State “Wall of Fame.” She seems incredibly grateful for the life-saving events, dispensing kisses, hugs, and snuggles in grand amounts. She makes frequent visits to Iowa State for followup visits. She is quite famous there and many wonderful vets, residents, vet students, vet techs, medical record people and receptionists always meet us with big smiles and hugs for us and Milly. But best of all is all the love she gives, the trust she shows and the inspiration she kindles in us daily.
We also have Eddie boy, a small fellow with FIV (feline deficiency virus, the kitty counterpart to HIV) infection whom we watch closely because of his compromised immune system. He gets along beautifully with our other five cats so has a safe home with us. He rewards us every day with lap time, under-the-cover snuggles, multitudes of purrs, and his gregarious and sweet personality. He is also Milly’s personal groomer. Our special needs kitties are the lights of our lives and couldn’t be loved more.
If you are an animal lover (or even if you aren’t), you will enjoy Homer’s emotive, poignant, at times heartbreaking, yet rousing and ultimately uplifting memoir. I am pleased to see Gwen has a couple of other books that feature Homer, and I will check those out. I highly recommend Homer’s Odyssey for all readers for a deeply satisfying read.
July 24, 2021
Concentrate—think only about the book! I liked it a lot. Now explain why. Explain clearly!
First of all, the author analyzes situations and people and yes, of course, her cats too! Her three adopted cats are as different from each other as night and day. The author, her friends, her parents and her boyfriend, her later-to-be-husband, are not described in a normal pedestrian manner. Gwen Cooper takes the time to evaluate persons and creatures; she juggles different ideas, what each may be thinking, what makes them who they are, what makes them do what they do. This analytical approach speaks to me. We hear the good and the bad. The people, the cats and the situations become relatable on a personal level. Are you following me? Am I clear?
Secondly, now let’s consider Homer--the last adopted cat. As you know, he is blind. He has no eyes. Infected, they were surgically removed at two weeks in order to save his life. He has never seen. He has never known what sight was. It has never occurred to him that he is different from others.
“Homer does not think he is handicapped!”
He is a daredevil, a bundle of energy, a goof-ball, curious and full of life. He is passionate. He uses his brain. He is not a creature to pity. He rejoices in life. He and the other two cats have as strong personalities as the people in the book. I like this a lot. I have a dog and I recognize the validity of our individual pets having unique personality types. And, I like Homer. I like him a lot. His character type speaks to me. People can in fact learn from him. This cat can be viewed as a role model.
The stories about Homer, they are not ordinary. We lean of his abilities as an insect hunter, of his attack of a burglar, of his fascination and ability to play with sounds—a rubber band around a newspaper and later a Kleenex box can be made to pling. The author lived in NYC in the ground zero area during 9/11. We get an inside story of the plight of animals during the catastrophe. ALL of these events are well told. There are incidents that are funny. Others have you holding your breath. Some amazed me.
There are good lines. One example must suffice:
“Nobody can tell you what your potential is.”
Authors and books are mentioned, but not in a name-dropping way. Instead, things they have said that are important to the author are related. Anthony Trollope is quoted:
“Manliness is not compatible with affectation.”
This is mentioned in relation to her husband’s manliness. His voice is deep and sonorous. Is he perfect? No, of course not. Who is? He is a hoarder and has a terrible temper. His view of cats was far from favorable at the start!
The audiobook narration is by Renée Raudman. It is good but did not really win me over. The intonations used for the pets put ME off. Too cute, too dramatized. I say—just read the author’s words. The narration I have given three stars. I think few will complaint about the narration.
The book ends with an interview with the author and her husband. This I did not like at all. She is laughing all the time. Sentences are incomplete. The seemingly light and friendly tone is in my ears innocuous and empty. Her husband is distant from the microphone, and it is difficult to hear what he says.
I am a “dog person”. This doesn’t matter, I liked the book a lot. It had me wondering if maybe one day I might try a cat………
First of all, the author analyzes situations and people and yes, of course, her cats too! Her three adopted cats are as different from each other as night and day. The author, her friends, her parents and her boyfriend, her later-to-be-husband, are not described in a normal pedestrian manner. Gwen Cooper takes the time to evaluate persons and creatures; she juggles different ideas, what each may be thinking, what makes them who they are, what makes them do what they do. This analytical approach speaks to me. We hear the good and the bad. The people, the cats and the situations become relatable on a personal level. Are you following me? Am I clear?
Secondly, now let’s consider Homer--the last adopted cat. As you know, he is blind. He has no eyes. Infected, they were surgically removed at two weeks in order to save his life. He has never seen. He has never known what sight was. It has never occurred to him that he is different from others.
“Homer does not think he is handicapped!”
He is a daredevil, a bundle of energy, a goof-ball, curious and full of life. He is passionate. He uses his brain. He is not a creature to pity. He rejoices in life. He and the other two cats have as strong personalities as the people in the book. I like this a lot. I have a dog and I recognize the validity of our individual pets having unique personality types. And, I like Homer. I like him a lot. His character type speaks to me. People can in fact learn from him. This cat can be viewed as a role model.
The stories about Homer, they are not ordinary. We lean of his abilities as an insect hunter, of his attack of a burglar, of his fascination and ability to play with sounds—a rubber band around a newspaper and later a Kleenex box can be made to pling. The author lived in NYC in the ground zero area during 9/11. We get an inside story of the plight of animals during the catastrophe. ALL of these events are well told. There are incidents that are funny. Others have you holding your breath. Some amazed me.
There are good lines. One example must suffice:
“Nobody can tell you what your potential is.”
Authors and books are mentioned, but not in a name-dropping way. Instead, things they have said that are important to the author are related. Anthony Trollope is quoted:
“Manliness is not compatible with affectation.”
This is mentioned in relation to her husband’s manliness. His voice is deep and sonorous. Is he perfect? No, of course not. Who is? He is a hoarder and has a terrible temper. His view of cats was far from favorable at the start!
The audiobook narration is by Renée Raudman. It is good but did not really win me over. The intonations used for the pets put ME off. Too cute, too dramatized. I say—just read the author’s words. The narration I have given three stars. I think few will complaint about the narration.
The book ends with an interview with the author and her husband. This I did not like at all. She is laughing all the time. Sentences are incomplete. The seemingly light and friendly tone is in my ears innocuous and empty. Her husband is distant from the microphone, and it is difficult to hear what he says.
I am a “dog person”. This doesn’t matter, I liked the book a lot. It had me wondering if maybe one day I might try a cat………
September 20, 2009
It is not fair to say that I "read" this book. To be honest, I read up to page 120. I never give up on books and usually force myself to persist until the end. Even one of my favorite books of all time, "The Poisonwood Bible," I almost gave up on several times during the first 100 pages. Recently, when the Goodreads newsletter came out and, at the top, it said "you've been reading Homer's Odyssey for 70 days" I was appalled. I knew I was having a lot of trouble finding time to read it, but let's face it -- when you're hooked on a book, you devour it -- finding 2 minutes here or there while you're stirring soup or waiting for a call back from someone or waiting for your prescription to be ready at Walgreens. So it hit me that to have only read less than 2 pages a day for the last 70 days, this book was never going to win me over. I tried very hard to like it. First, I won this as a Goodreads Giveaway and felt a responsibility to finish it - and hopefully love it! - in order to give it a fair review. That was difficult most days because I had two enticing books staring at me that I've been dying to read but was determined not to touch until I finished Homer. I've had several Giveaway books and have always submitted an objective review. Secondly, I am an animal lover. Admittedly, I favor dogs over cats, but have owned several and adore them. Thirdly, the book currently has received 4+ stars from reviewers, so I am definitely going against the grain and in the minority. To post this, I have had to consider just what about this book turns me off because who wouldn't love a blind cat? Have I no compassion? Maybe I'm just a curmudgeon, but I found it very tedious that the author consistently went through all the mental gymnastics that she attributed to the cat. I'm sure this kitten was lovable and cute beyond measure and adapted amazingly well to a world that he couldn't see. As living creatures are apt to do, he adapted. It happens in nature every day. A whole book describing his heroism and mental processes to navigate rooms, etc. really tried my patience. At several intervals, I found myself yelling to the author the quote attributed to Freud: sometimes a cigar is just a cigar. Cats will play and cavort and careen, will climb things and play with their food. This is typical. That Homer was blind made being typical a challenge, but he achieved it. What I object to is Ms. Cooper's meandering insights into his mental machinations. I'm already imagining hearing a loud chorus of boos from readers who enjoyed this book. I am sorry. I really wanted to like it. When I read the synopsis, I wondered how the author was going to expand the antics of a blind cat into a whole book and now I know. I find it perplexing that someone has enough time to take apart and examine every action of a cat in this manner. The book is well written, I have to say. My objections only relate to content. Should writing ever dry up for the author, there is always cat whispering. She'd be very good at that. I just don't want to read about it.
April 29, 2015
When it comes to owning cats, I think a good rule of thumb is that one cat is fine, two are better (they keep each other entertained), but having three cats is bordering on making one a crazy cat lady if you are of the female persuasion. (Notice you never hear of a crazy cat man -- why is that? )
Anyway, Gwen already had two cats when she heard about Homer. Poor little Homer; born with a serious eye infection. The vet had to remove both eyes to save him, and then finding an adoptive home for the little guy was a struggle. Humans like their pets to look normal, not to mention cute and adorable, so it takes a special person to take in a kitten with no eyes. Gwen worried if she was up to the challenge but nevertheless agreed to take him because she knew no one else would.
Best decision of her life.
Homer is special in ways beyond his blindness. The feats he is able to perform bordered on amazing, but to mention them here would spoil it for those planning to read the book. I was absolutely amazed, no other way to say it. He and Gwen illustrate that there are certainly a multitude of ways to overcome one's disabilities, and that you can find love, wisdom, and bravery where you least expect it.
I laughed, I cried, I smiled a lot, and read parts aloud to anyone who would listen. A wonderful book if you like cats in the slightest. But don't call me crazy; I only have one.
Anyway, Gwen already had two cats when she heard about Homer. Poor little Homer; born with a serious eye infection. The vet had to remove both eyes to save him, and then finding an adoptive home for the little guy was a struggle. Humans like their pets to look normal, not to mention cute and adorable, so it takes a special person to take in a kitten with no eyes. Gwen worried if she was up to the challenge but nevertheless agreed to take him because she knew no one else would.
Best decision of her life.
Homer is special in ways beyond his blindness. The feats he is able to perform bordered on amazing, but to mention them here would spoil it for those planning to read the book. I was absolutely amazed, no other way to say it. He and Gwen illustrate that there are certainly a multitude of ways to overcome one's disabilities, and that you can find love, wisdom, and bravery where you least expect it.
I laughed, I cried, I smiled a lot, and read parts aloud to anyone who would listen. A wonderful book if you like cats in the slightest. But don't call me crazy; I only have one.
November 18, 2020
Homer's Odyssey, not to be confused with The Odyssey, by Homer is a funny, witty, incredibly touching saga about a woman and her cat, not necessarily in that order. Black cats and kittens are often the last to be adopted because of superstitions, and well, because they’re black. Little Homer, he’s black. Strike one. He also had a terrible eye infection as an itty bitty kitty that required his eyes to be removed. A blind kitten. Strike two. The caring vet tried her very best to find someone who would take him. Sadly, there were no takers. Then along came Gwen.
Gwen Cooper was a young woman who worked for a non-profit agency in Miami. She made very little money, and she already had two cats. Strike three? No! It was love at first sight – for Gwen, that is. Actually, for Homer too. As Gwen demonstrates time and again, sight was not necessary for Homer to function. It took him an incredibly short time to adapt to her apartment and to make himself at home. There was nothing he wouldn’t try. He nearly always succeeded. Homer, the Wonder Cat.
I’ve loved and been loved by a number of pretty amazing cats over the past 35+ years. Schnooks, AKA “the Queen Mum,” who lived to the age of 22 and then Little Red, who was probably 23. Rainey was about 18. All were very hard of hearing in their old age; Schnooks went blind near the end of her life. Topsy, who at 13 had far outlived estimates of how long she would survive bladder cancer, and also Sammy, Ricky, Jody, Keisha, and Holly who all endured multiple illnesses and treatments in their late teens, yet they all managed to maintain their loving personalities and show affection and appreciation for the care they received. Others, too, who have gone to the Rainbow Bridge but are still near and dear to my heart. The true Wonder Cat is Milly, who most certainly used up more than three of nine lives when she was seven. Her kidneys failed due to blockage in her ureters. We drove her to the small animal hospital at ISU in Ames, three hours away. She was rushed into the ER, given a full workup, and later that afternoon, we were given our options: a rare surgery to implant artificial ureters or euthanize her. The operation was risky, but if we didn’t opt for surgery, she would die anyway. She survived, improved a bit, but needed surgery on the other side. We held out breath. Then – success! However, two nights later, cardiac arrest. Then more complications. Bruised lungs, two transfusions. After two weeks in the ICU, we took our little Milly home, where she tolerated several weeks of receiving fluids via a tube in her neck four times a day. She still needs a procedure to flush her catheters every few months to prevent stones and infections, but she’s a real trooper. Through it all, she has become more affectionate and loving while maintaining her spunky personality. She’s rather famous among the dedicated staff, residents, and vet students at ISU, and they all love her. Now, going on ten years young, she is a cooperative patient and is often called upon to “teach” students about her condition. For me, a day without Milly’s hugs and kisses is like a day without sunshine.
Simply put, cats are amazingly resilient beings. I can’t say enough about how touched I was to read Homer’s story. Homer got his name from Homer, the legendary Greek author believed to have been blind. Everyone who met this little feline fell in love with him, even people like Gwen’s parents, who didn’t even like cats. It helped that he could leap into the air, catch a fly, and swallow it up. Remember that scene with the chopsticks in Karate Kid? Like that, only add blindfolds! Cooper writes like any mother describing her kids. She brags. She recalls heart-pounding events that terrified her. She writes so convincingly that I suffered through those anxieties right along with her. What an odyssey for Homer and his household!
Homer joined a household with two female cats, and while Gwen Cooper does her best to give Vashti and Scarlet their due, this is Homer’s story. Homer shows us that black cats matter. Disabled cats matter. Homer didn’t understand that he was black or disabled. He didn’t need sight to live a full life. And he didn’t need sight to know what love is.
Reading about Homer cuddling with Gwen, playing with her parents’ dog, fetching his stuffed worm, befriending everyone he met, and also reading the more heart-wrenching parts of the book, just made me cherish my own cats more. I still miss each of those who are no longer here, and I appreciate the six who are willing to share their lives with me today. It is an incredible journey, to be sure.
Even if you are not a “cat person,” you can find something to love in Homer’s Odyssey. Just by being himself, Homer taught Gwen, and teaches us all, how to live with courage, abandon, trust, and with love.
5 paw prints!
Gwen Cooper was a young woman who worked for a non-profit agency in Miami. She made very little money, and she already had two cats. Strike three? No! It was love at first sight – for Gwen, that is. Actually, for Homer too. As Gwen demonstrates time and again, sight was not necessary for Homer to function. It took him an incredibly short time to adapt to her apartment and to make himself at home. There was nothing he wouldn’t try. He nearly always succeeded. Homer, the Wonder Cat.
I’ve loved and been loved by a number of pretty amazing cats over the past 35+ years. Schnooks, AKA “the Queen Mum,” who lived to the age of 22 and then Little Red, who was probably 23. Rainey was about 18. All were very hard of hearing in their old age; Schnooks went blind near the end of her life. Topsy, who at 13 had far outlived estimates of how long she would survive bladder cancer, and also Sammy, Ricky, Jody, Keisha, and Holly who all endured multiple illnesses and treatments in their late teens, yet they all managed to maintain their loving personalities and show affection and appreciation for the care they received. Others, too, who have gone to the Rainbow Bridge but are still near and dear to my heart. The true Wonder Cat is Milly, who most certainly used up more than three of nine lives when she was seven. Her kidneys failed due to blockage in her ureters. We drove her to the small animal hospital at ISU in Ames, three hours away. She was rushed into the ER, given a full workup, and later that afternoon, we were given our options: a rare surgery to implant artificial ureters or euthanize her. The operation was risky, but if we didn’t opt for surgery, she would die anyway. She survived, improved a bit, but needed surgery on the other side. We held out breath. Then – success! However, two nights later, cardiac arrest. Then more complications. Bruised lungs, two transfusions. After two weeks in the ICU, we took our little Milly home, where she tolerated several weeks of receiving fluids via a tube in her neck four times a day. She still needs a procedure to flush her catheters every few months to prevent stones and infections, but she’s a real trooper. Through it all, she has become more affectionate and loving while maintaining her spunky personality. She’s rather famous among the dedicated staff, residents, and vet students at ISU, and they all love her. Now, going on ten years young, she is a cooperative patient and is often called upon to “teach” students about her condition. For me, a day without Milly’s hugs and kisses is like a day without sunshine.
Simply put, cats are amazingly resilient beings. I can’t say enough about how touched I was to read Homer’s story. Homer got his name from Homer, the legendary Greek author believed to have been blind. Everyone who met this little feline fell in love with him, even people like Gwen’s parents, who didn’t even like cats. It helped that he could leap into the air, catch a fly, and swallow it up. Remember that scene with the chopsticks in Karate Kid? Like that, only add blindfolds! Cooper writes like any mother describing her kids. She brags. She recalls heart-pounding events that terrified her. She writes so convincingly that I suffered through those anxieties right along with her. What an odyssey for Homer and his household!
Homer joined a household with two female cats, and while Gwen Cooper does her best to give Vashti and Scarlet their due, this is Homer’s story. Homer shows us that black cats matter. Disabled cats matter. Homer didn’t understand that he was black or disabled. He didn’t need sight to live a full life. And he didn’t need sight to know what love is.
Reading about Homer cuddling with Gwen, playing with her parents’ dog, fetching his stuffed worm, befriending everyone he met, and also reading the more heart-wrenching parts of the book, just made me cherish my own cats more. I still miss each of those who are no longer here, and I appreciate the six who are willing to share their lives with me today. It is an incredible journey, to be sure.
Even if you are not a “cat person,” you can find something to love in Homer’s Odyssey. Just by being himself, Homer taught Gwen, and teaches us all, how to live with courage, abandon, trust, and with love.
5 paw prints!
April 7, 2015
OMG! I am in love with Homer! This cat Gwen rescued from her vet is the most touching stories I have read in a while. He was brought in by some people at around 3 weeks with messed up eyes. They said they found him and wanted him euthanized. Well the vet wasn't having any of that, she removed his eyes and when no one wanted him, her last resort was to ask Gwen who already had two cats and couldn't afford another one at the time. She couldn't help herself and took him!
The stories about Homer learning the lay of his land in the house is amazing! He just had a strong will to live and discover things. You just have to read the book to get the full effect!
I have to say my favorite part of the book is with the burglar. I laughed so hard I thought I was going to crack a rib! Who ever heard of a blind attack cat! Well that burglar was stunned to say the least. I can not believe how funny that scene was, I would like to write it out here but I will save it so you can buy the book :)
I am going to add a SPOILER!!!!!! IT'S A PART FROM THE BEGINNING OF THE BOOK!!!
**SPOILER**
*TAKEN FROM THE BOOK*
When I walked in with my date, Homer ran to greet me at the door. And there, hanging from his mouth, was a tampon. The whiteness of it stood out against his black fur in vivid, mortifying relief. He scampered around in gleeful triumph for a moment, then promptly ran over and sat expectantly on his haunches in front of me, tampon clutched in between his jaws like a dog with a rawhide bone.
My date looked taken aback, to say the least, "What the....is that a.." He stammered for a moment, before finally managing, "Did something happen to your cat?"
I hunkered down on my heels, and Homer happily climbed into my lap, dropping the purloined tampon at my feet. "He's fine," I answered. "He doesn't have any eyes, is all."
*END*
I thought that summed up Homer to a capital T!
I recommend this book to one and all, it's a very inspirational story about a cat that beat the odds!
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
The stories about Homer learning the lay of his land in the house is amazing! He just had a strong will to live and discover things. You just have to read the book to get the full effect!
I have to say my favorite part of the book is with the burglar. I laughed so hard I thought I was going to crack a rib! Who ever heard of a blind attack cat! Well that burglar was stunned to say the least. I can not believe how funny that scene was, I would like to write it out here but I will save it so you can buy the book :)
I am going to add a SPOILER!!!!!! IT'S A PART FROM THE BEGINNING OF THE BOOK!!!
**SPOILER**
*TAKEN FROM THE BOOK*
When I walked in with my date, Homer ran to greet me at the door. And there, hanging from his mouth, was a tampon. The whiteness of it stood out against his black fur in vivid, mortifying relief. He scampered around in gleeful triumph for a moment, then promptly ran over and sat expectantly on his haunches in front of me, tampon clutched in between his jaws like a dog with a rawhide bone.
My date looked taken aback, to say the least, "What the....is that a.." He stammered for a moment, before finally managing, "Did something happen to your cat?"
I hunkered down on my heels, and Homer happily climbed into my lap, dropping the purloined tampon at my feet. "He's fine," I answered. "He doesn't have any eyes, is all."
*END*
I thought that summed up Homer to a capital T!
I recommend this book to one and all, it's a very inspirational story about a cat that beat the odds!
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
March 28, 2012
Really an exceptional read, and written much better then I had expected. I loved how Cooper started each of her chapters off with a quote from The Odyssey, and then proceeded to weave the quote into the story of her little blind dynamo kitty. Homer's Odyssey is much more then just a cat story. It's a book that can challenge all of us humans to live up to whatever potential we have within us.
After laughing, crying and cheering over Homer's saga, I was left with the almost overpowering urge to find a blind kitty of my own.
Kudos to Cooper for her inspiring story of the cat-who-could-and-did.
After laughing, crying and cheering over Homer's saga, I was left with the almost overpowering urge to find a blind kitty of my own.
Kudos to Cooper for her inspiring story of the cat-who-could-and-did.
April 16, 2011
The primary reason for giving this book 5 stars, in addition to my obviously loving it, is because of the author. This is a genuine animal lover/animal rescuer who wants nothing more than to tell what Homer, a cat with no eyes that she adopted, did for her (and not vice-versa).
Gwenn already had 2 rescued cats, Scarlett and Vashti, when a young and kind-hearted vet called her to tell her about a young abandoned kitten whose eyes had to be removed because they were so badly infected. Gwenn says she will 'meet' the kitten, with no promises of adopting him....HA! After about 30 seconds, Gwenn tells the vet "I'll take him".
What follows is a story of love, patience and devotion, and lessons to be learned from a kitten who knows no fear or boundaries because he cannot see. We can all learn to take chances from this little guy. Gwenn and her little brood of 3 fall upon hard times in Florida, even needing to move back to Gwenn's parents home for a little while. Then, with Homer as inspiration, Gwenn applies for and receives a job offer in New York and off they go! Two very personal and emotional chapters are dedicated to the 9/11 tragedy when Gwenn was living in the Financial District of New York.
The book spans 12 years, all told, and there are many laughs as we read about the antics of Homer, Scarlett and Vashti, as well as the ups and downs in Gwenn's life, particulary dating before she meets the man of her dreams. Probably the best part is that I have finally read a true animal story that ends before any of them pass away...so it ends on a very happy note.
I am partial to the story since I too have 3 rescued cats of my own. I'm not sure if you will love this as much as I do if you don't have a strong love of cats, but if you, you should really give this book a go.
Gwenn already had 2 rescued cats, Scarlett and Vashti, when a young and kind-hearted vet called her to tell her about a young abandoned kitten whose eyes had to be removed because they were so badly infected. Gwenn says she will 'meet' the kitten, with no promises of adopting him....HA! After about 30 seconds, Gwenn tells the vet "I'll take him".
What follows is a story of love, patience and devotion, and lessons to be learned from a kitten who knows no fear or boundaries because he cannot see. We can all learn to take chances from this little guy. Gwenn and her little brood of 3 fall upon hard times in Florida, even needing to move back to Gwenn's parents home for a little while. Then, with Homer as inspiration, Gwenn applies for and receives a job offer in New York and off they go! Two very personal and emotional chapters are dedicated to the 9/11 tragedy when Gwenn was living in the Financial District of New York.
The book spans 12 years, all told, and there are many laughs as we read about the antics of Homer, Scarlett and Vashti, as well as the ups and downs in Gwenn's life, particulary dating before she meets the man of her dreams. Probably the best part is that I have finally read a true animal story that ends before any of them pass away...so it ends on a very happy note.
I am partial to the story since I too have 3 rescued cats of my own. I'm not sure if you will love this as much as I do if you don't have a strong love of cats, but if you, you should really give this book a go.
August 25, 2013
UPDATE: Since reading this book, I've been following Homer and his antics on his Facebook page and his mom's blog. Sadly, Homer passed away on Wednesday, August 21, 2013. He was sixteen years old and lived such a full and loved life. Homer has touched my heart and the hearts of many others. Here is his mom reading from her book where she met Homer for the first time. Here is a touching blog post written by Homer's mom in his honor.
“Every animal who’s given the chance to love and be loved can make someone else’s life better, can fill up empty places in our hearts we didn’t even know were there until they were full. And, once in a great while, one tiny creature can have a spirit so big that it spills over and makes the whole world just a little bit better, and happier, and more inspired, than it was before. Even in the darkest places are small lights that can grow and grow until they warm us all.”Run free, Homer, run free.
ORIGINAL REVIEW: I instantly loved Homer. I am a undeniable believer that pets enrich and make our lives fuller. Maybe you are lucky enough to have that once-in-a-lifetime pet that is able to touch your life in a very deep and profound way. I have a black cat that was hand-raised from the age of four weeks as well. Although my cat is not blind, he was the runt of the litter, and due to some yucky habits (besides being black—stupid superstitions), he was the least liked in the litter and I feared him unadoptable. Be it destiny or fate or something or the other, tho not as dramatic as the beginning of Ms. Cooper’s journey with Homer, he became “mine,” and I happen to think he’s pretty darn wonderful. I don’t think I’ve ever had any being (human or otherwise) give me so much unconditional love in return. There is an obvious bond between us. This is what I kept attaching to throughout the book: Homer’s constant and fierce devotion to Ms. Cooper. I mean c’mon, the little guy even battled off a burglar/rapist!
I laughed--out loud--when Ms. Cooper points out that (as I am all too aware) three cats do NOT do wonders for your dating life when you’re in your late 20s/early 30s. Oh the dating horrors! Her writing is so personable and so open; she enchants you with her weaving of she and Homer’s tale and irrevocably draws you in. I absolutely love her willingness to expose herself doing so with a healthy dose of humor and wit. Not only are you privy to Homer’s story and antics, you see the author grow as well through some very tough life experiences and how her life parallels that of her beloved pets (let’s not forget Scarlett and Vashti!). Reading about some of the events in Ms. Cooper’s life just punched me in the gut (i.e. 9/11, coping with so much human suffering, and panicking about leaving her pets at home). I’ve oft wondered what I would do if faced with a very serious challenge like that: What lengths would I go to in order to protect my furry family? The passage wasn’t self-aggrandizing at all, but I could definitely put myself in her shoes.
What do you walk away learning from Homer? 1) Some things you just have to take on faith. Take that leap in to the great abyss and just know deep down in your knower that you will land on your feet. Life is an adventure, so live it to the fullest! 2) Adaptation and perseverance pays. Don’t sweat the small stuff! And don’t forget to take joy in the simple things. 3) Love is blind and something that goes way waaaaay deeper than just the eyes. And 4) The clichés keep coming, but it’s true. You should never, ever judge a book by its cover. You have no idea what kinds of gems in the rough you will find! Who wouldn’t love Homer?? Cat lover or not, I think everyone could learn something from this book. A fast read but certainly not fluff. I highly recommend this thoughtful book about love, life, and simple companionship. Three hurrahs for Homer! Now I’m going to go read and cuddle my cat…
May 19, 2021
Love it love it love! Did I mention - love it? Just in case I didn't - love it! Such a beautiful story that simply touched me to my soul. As a fellow cat lover and owner (does one really own a cat? I think it's a mutual bond instead *wink*) I related to everything Gwen wrote. I had a kitty who had very little sight, but she was an indoor cat and we always made sure we didn't shift furniture around, and she had no problems - she'd use her whiskers to skim around the walls and got on and off the sofa and beds with no problems:-)
This is a must read for every cat and animal lover!
This is a must read for every cat and animal lover!
December 8, 2010
I really likes this book a lot. People who know me are totally aware of my near-obsession with cats, and that I am very involved in cat rescue, and that am fostering lots of cats at any given moment. I can't get enough of Lolcats and can lose hours at cuteoverload.com and icanhascheezburger.com. But when it comes to reading longer stories about animals and animal rescue, I usually can't handle the overabundance of sappiness (and sometimes self-righteousness) that is ever-present. So I am happy to report that this book isn't sappy at all. And in fact, it's awesome.
I saw it on a table at Barnes & Noble, bought it, and had it finished less than 24 hours later. I just couldn't put it down. The book focuses on the author's cat Homer, who she adopted as a blind 6-week-old kitten. The important thing to note is that he had a severe eye infection before he ever even opened his eyes, so he had never actually seen at all. This never-having-seen-at-all comes up later and is the source of some pretty funny stories. The author was naturally worried about him from the beginning, but Homer made it clear pretty quick that he was not at any sort of disadvantage. The most notable thing about him is that his eyes had been removed, pretty much to save his life, and his eyelids were sewn shut--so he looked a little funny to people who first met him.
The book is a true memoir, in that Cooper tells us all the major things going on in her life. This is kind of interesting, as Homer (and her other two cats) are a major part of her life, and influence so many things. But I can say that I was far less interested in her dating life and perfect marriage and stuff that dominated the end of the book.
Here's my favorite story from the book: Homer has no concept of sight, right? But in every other way, he's a totally normal cat. So he would set out to stalk one of the other cats in the house, and he would do a bang-up job of it, moving stealthily and making no noise, etc. But there was one problem--he'd do it right in front of the other cats, who would be looking right at him as he gradually inched towards them. Every time, he'd end up with a swat on the head, and a look on his face of, "How did she catch me THAT TIME?! I didn't make any noise!" I just think this is adorable.
So if you wonder if this had any real impact on my life, let me just tell you that right after I finished, I decided I needed to adopt a blind cat myself. (Lest you think this is a crazy spontaneous thing, I lost my two oldest cats over the past 14 months, and I've been pondering adopting a special needs cat for a while). I found a little guy named Spider on petfinder.com and went through the rescue's application process, and I'll be picking up Spider this coming weekend. Yay!
UPDATE ON SPIDER
I just thought I'd give an update on my little Spider-man for anyone who wonders how that "whim" turned out--he's doing great. He's such a happy boy, and he loves to be close to me, though he is getting more and more confident navigating my untidy house. He spent several weeks living in my bedroom where for the most part he was alone, but now that the other cats have gotten used to him, he seeks them out occasionally. He sometimes walks into things, but he's smart enough to never walk to fast, and he often senses objects before he actually hits them. He's not nearly as confident or enthusiastic as Homer, but he's my adorable and clumsy kitty and I adore him.
I saw it on a table at Barnes & Noble, bought it, and had it finished less than 24 hours later. I just couldn't put it down. The book focuses on the author's cat Homer, who she adopted as a blind 6-week-old kitten. The important thing to note is that he had a severe eye infection before he ever even opened his eyes, so he had never actually seen at all. This never-having-seen-at-all comes up later and is the source of some pretty funny stories. The author was naturally worried about him from the beginning, but Homer made it clear pretty quick that he was not at any sort of disadvantage. The most notable thing about him is that his eyes had been removed, pretty much to save his life, and his eyelids were sewn shut--so he looked a little funny to people who first met him.
The book is a true memoir, in that Cooper tells us all the major things going on in her life. This is kind of interesting, as Homer (and her other two cats) are a major part of her life, and influence so many things. But I can say that I was far less interested in her dating life and perfect marriage and stuff that dominated the end of the book.
Here's my favorite story from the book: Homer has no concept of sight, right? But in every other way, he's a totally normal cat. So he would set out to stalk one of the other cats in the house, and he would do a bang-up job of it, moving stealthily and making no noise, etc. But there was one problem--he'd do it right in front of the other cats, who would be looking right at him as he gradually inched towards them. Every time, he'd end up with a swat on the head, and a look on his face of, "How did she catch me THAT TIME?! I didn't make any noise!" I just think this is adorable.
So if you wonder if this had any real impact on my life, let me just tell you that right after I finished, I decided I needed to adopt a blind cat myself. (Lest you think this is a crazy spontaneous thing, I lost my two oldest cats over the past 14 months, and I've been pondering adopting a special needs cat for a while). I found a little guy named Spider on petfinder.com and went through the rescue's application process, and I'll be picking up Spider this coming weekend. Yay!
UPDATE ON SPIDER
I just thought I'd give an update on my little Spider-man for anyone who wonders how that "whim" turned out--he's doing great. He's such a happy boy, and he loves to be close to me, though he is getting more and more confident navigating my untidy house. He spent several weeks living in my bedroom where for the most part he was alone, but now that the other cats have gotten used to him, he seeks them out occasionally. He sometimes walks into things, but he's smart enough to never walk to fast, and he often senses objects before he actually hits them. He's not nearly as confident or enthusiastic as Homer, but he's my adorable and clumsy kitty and I adore him.
June 21, 2018
I absolutely loved this book, and I don't say that very often, folks. The true story of Homer - who just happens to be a blind cat - and his catmum, Gwen. Gwen's love for Homer is stupendous, but even better than that, is the way Homer becomes a role model for Gwen. He gives her strength, by setting an example, throughout her own life's ups and downs. If you love cats, this book will steal your heart, as it did mine.
5 Stars = It made a significant impact on my heart, and/or mind. It moved me. I won't forget it.
5 Stars = It made a significant impact on my heart, and/or mind. It moved me. I won't forget it.
February 15, 2016
**ETA: reread in 2016 for a challenge. Still love it.**
I don't even know where to begin with this one. This is a book that I won through Goodreads' First Reads program, and might be one of the best books I've ever come across. No, scratch that. It IS one of the best books I've ever come across. I laughed, I cried, I gripped the couch cushions in terror, I raged at the unfairness of people. In short, I ran the gamut of every emotion known to man while reading this book.
Homer is adopted as a blind kitten and quickly makes his new mom realize that she can't define him by his disability. You know there's a parallel right there, don't you? One of the quotations that hit me the hardest was when she said, "No one can tell you what your potential is." For Homer, his potential is endless. He doesn't know what it's like to see, so he can't assume that he's different. He attacks life with gusto, attempting the 6-foot leap from scratching post to closet shelf multiple times before he makes it. Nothing deters this little guy, and he's sure not going to let the blackness stop him.
Homer is the kind of cat who makes cat-lovers out of cat-haters. There's so much affection and love poured into his tiny body that the only way he can exist, it seems, is by sharing it with everyone and anyone. The one exception is the burglar who breaks into their apartment. Imagine a blind cat launching himself at a very large man like a mad banshee, and chasing said large man out and down the hall. Homer is bravery personified. (well, personified if he was a person. Maybe catified?)
The thing is, there are life lessons to be learned in this book. As the 'parent' of a disabled cat myself, I can see myself in Ms. Cooper. I never want anything to hurt my Pippin, yet I can't let myself hold her back. She was hit by a car several months ago, and hasn't ever recovered full mobility in her legs. She limps dreadfully, and people often look at us askance when they see her walking. I've even had people stop me and ask me if I know that my cat is injured. One kind little man offered to build us a scooter. So I understand some of what Ms. Cooper experiences with Homer and people's natural curiosity. I also understand what it means to let the disabled pet live their full potential without interference from Mom. It sometimes kills me to allow Pippin to go her merry way, but I know it would kill her to be confined. She's so naturally curious, and she's found all sorts of ways to accommodate her disability. I tell you what, when she runs, you can't tell there's anything wrong with her!
Homer is the same way, and I think that the similarities between him and my Pip made me get a lot more out of this than I might have otherwise. It makes me realize that I need to give people the same benefit of the doubt and allow them to live up to their potential. It makes me realize that unconditional love is the only way to go. It makes me realize that loving and being loved in return is a beautiful thing. It makes me so grateful for my beautiful Pippin and how much she loves her mommy. All in all, I think the biggest lesson that I'm taking away from this is that everyone, no matter who they are, has something wonderful to offer.
Please, read this book. Read this book and accept the challenge to be a little better.
I don't even know where to begin with this one. This is a book that I won through Goodreads' First Reads program, and might be one of the best books I've ever come across. No, scratch that. It IS one of the best books I've ever come across. I laughed, I cried, I gripped the couch cushions in terror, I raged at the unfairness of people. In short, I ran the gamut of every emotion known to man while reading this book.
Homer is adopted as a blind kitten and quickly makes his new mom realize that she can't define him by his disability. You know there's a parallel right there, don't you? One of the quotations that hit me the hardest was when she said, "No one can tell you what your potential is." For Homer, his potential is endless. He doesn't know what it's like to see, so he can't assume that he's different. He attacks life with gusto, attempting the 6-foot leap from scratching post to closet shelf multiple times before he makes it. Nothing deters this little guy, and he's sure not going to let the blackness stop him.
Homer is the kind of cat who makes cat-lovers out of cat-haters. There's so much affection and love poured into his tiny body that the only way he can exist, it seems, is by sharing it with everyone and anyone. The one exception is the burglar who breaks into their apartment. Imagine a blind cat launching himself at a very large man like a mad banshee, and chasing said large man out and down the hall. Homer is bravery personified. (well, personified if he was a person. Maybe catified?)
The thing is, there are life lessons to be learned in this book. As the 'parent' of a disabled cat myself, I can see myself in Ms. Cooper. I never want anything to hurt my Pippin, yet I can't let myself hold her back. She was hit by a car several months ago, and hasn't ever recovered full mobility in her legs. She limps dreadfully, and people often look at us askance when they see her walking. I've even had people stop me and ask me if I know that my cat is injured. One kind little man offered to build us a scooter. So I understand some of what Ms. Cooper experiences with Homer and people's natural curiosity. I also understand what it means to let the disabled pet live their full potential without interference from Mom. It sometimes kills me to allow Pippin to go her merry way, but I know it would kill her to be confined. She's so naturally curious, and she's found all sorts of ways to accommodate her disability. I tell you what, when she runs, you can't tell there's anything wrong with her!
Homer is the same way, and I think that the similarities between him and my Pip made me get a lot more out of this than I might have otherwise. It makes me realize that I need to give people the same benefit of the doubt and allow them to live up to their potential. It makes me realize that unconditional love is the only way to go. It makes me realize that loving and being loved in return is a beautiful thing. It makes me so grateful for my beautiful Pippin and how much she loves her mommy. All in all, I think the biggest lesson that I'm taking away from this is that everyone, no matter who they are, has something wonderful to offer.
Please, read this book. Read this book and accept the challenge to be a little better.
June 28, 2021
If you are looking for a GREAT story that is warm, loving, wonderful, and amazing... then you have to read about the life of Homer...
Born in poverty, this little cat (NOT CAR) rises to the top and becomes someone special...
“So I didn't adopt Homer because he was cute and little and sweet, or because he was helpless and needed me. I adopted him because when you think you see something so fundamentally worthwhile in someone else, you don't look for the reasons - like bad timing or a negative bank balance - that might keep it out of your life. You commit to being strong enough to build your life around it, no matter what. In doing so, you begin to become the thing you admire.”
A five-star read for sure..
Happy Reading!
Born in poverty, this little cat (NOT CAR) rises to the top and becomes someone special...
“So I didn't adopt Homer because he was cute and little and sweet, or because he was helpless and needed me. I adopted him because when you think you see something so fundamentally worthwhile in someone else, you don't look for the reasons - like bad timing or a negative bank balance - that might keep it out of your life. You commit to being strong enough to build your life around it, no matter what. In doing so, you begin to become the thing you admire.”
A five-star read for sure..
Happy Reading!
April 11, 2017
While it is clear that Homer the cat has a spunky and fun personality, the the book dose not. Cooper's pace at times seemed like she was given a writing assignment and she was working hard to meet the required word count. She is very clever at putting words into the actions and meows of her cats. Instead she writes almost entirely about herself finally becoming a grown up while she was taking care of three cats. As grown-ups we know that choosing an apartment requires an assessment of the family needs, we don't need the entire dry thought process detailed when she has already covered many of the precautions she takes for a blind cat. Her end conclusion that Homer had taught her how to ultimately choose the right mate for herself seemed forced. Through out the book Homer quickly reaches out aware of the risk, but trusting his own instincts to meet new friends, explore new homes, and test new toys. Cooper took three years (and what sounds like some excuses) before she could trust herself to take a risk and recognize that the man she claimed was only a friend was someone she loved. It didn't seem very Homer like to me.
February 16, 2016
I enjoyed this book, for the most part. It's written well, stylistically, and Homer is a fascinating little guy. I loved reading all about his life.
The addition of other facets of the author's life was less interesting, but I can see why it was necessary to do so.
The philosophical ramblings of the author are what lost this book a star and a half for me. It went on and on and on about the nature of love and bravery and the universe, and I got bored. Very bored.
But still. Cat. Cute, brave, adventurous cat. Can't be less than 3 stars for that.
TL;DR: Definitely worth the read, but maybe a few less soliloquys would've been better.
*********************************
3.5 stars. Full review to come.
The addition of other facets of the author's life was less interesting, but I can see why it was necessary to do so.
The philosophical ramblings of the author are what lost this book a star and a half for me. It went on and on and on about the nature of love and bravery and the universe, and I got bored. Very bored.
But still. Cat. Cute, brave, adventurous cat. Can't be less than 3 stars for that.
TL;DR: Definitely worth the read, but maybe a few less soliloquys would've been better.
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3.5 stars. Full review to come.
April 11, 2021
I enjoyed listening to Homer's Odyssey: A Fearless Feline Tale, Or How I Learned About Love and Life with a Blind Wonder Cat by Gwen Cooper and read by Renee Raudman.
Homer Bear is a tiny blind black kitten adopted by Gwen Cooper, owner of two other cats - Scarlett and Vashti. This story of Homer's adventures through the years should appeal to cat lovers.
The audiobook ends with the author and her husband Lawrence discussing their three cats.
Homer Bear is a tiny blind black kitten adopted by Gwen Cooper, owner of two other cats - Scarlett and Vashti. This story of Homer's adventures through the years should appeal to cat lovers.
The audiobook ends with the author and her husband Lawrence discussing their three cats.
June 5, 2018
An exceptional book, about a exceptional cat (Homer). He was named after the Greek writer Homer.
Like Homer he was blind too. Abandoned as a kitten; His eyes were infected and had to be removed.
Gwen already had two adult cats, but she fell in love with little Homer at first sight. Although Homer was small in size, three pound bundle of energy he was always a daredevil. He had no fear. He was good at climbing, especially on denim pants.
He showed no fear by chasing off an intruder in Gwen's apartment.
Homer taught Gwen all about love, being something you cannot see.
A wonderful book for all pet lovers.
Like Homer he was blind too. Abandoned as a kitten; His eyes were infected and had to be removed.
Gwen already had two adult cats, but she fell in love with little Homer at first sight. Although Homer was small in size, three pound bundle of energy he was always a daredevil. He had no fear. He was good at climbing, especially on denim pants.
He showed no fear by chasing off an intruder in Gwen's apartment.
Homer taught Gwen all about love, being something you cannot see.
A wonderful book for all pet lovers.
April 27, 2021
* Read for
The 52 Book Club's 2021 Reading Challenge
task: A character with a pet cat
September 24, 2018
A little sappy, but a nice story of an unusual cat. Her story of the night Homer chased off a burglar! 2.5 stars, rounded up.
July 27, 2009
Yes Yes Yes!!!!! This is one cute fuzz ball of a book. Following in the tradition of Dewey, Wesley the Owl, and the Alex Chronicles this is a book any animal lover can sink their claws and teeth in and wag their tail about. Homer is one cute kitty who loses his sight due to an infection in the first two weeks of life. For those of us who are squeamish for the poor kitty who loses his sight, don't worry as for the first 10 to 14 days kitties don't open their eyes. So Homer doesn't know what he is missing. This is a delightful book one not to miss. Hopefully my library gets a copy so others can read this good book.
Would I buy this book? Not at full price because I NEVER buy anything at full price. Would I pass this along? Yes definately. I liked it better than Dewey because I could relate to the author more and i have two beautiful black cats. I have been a cat lover all my life.
Would I buy this book? Not at full price because I NEVER buy anything at full price. Would I pass this along? Yes definately. I liked it better than Dewey because I could relate to the author more and i have two beautiful black cats. I have been a cat lover all my life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2016
Homer was only 2 weeks old when a couple brought him, a stray cat, to a vet’s office and suggested he be euthanized because he seemed to have an eye infection. The vet refused to euthanize him and set out to find someone to take him home, after she’d done surgery to remove his eyes altogether. Gwen Cooper was that someone. Homer went against everything everyone said he would be because he had no eyes. It only took him a short time to find his way around any new house that he was living in, and he had energy to spare (much to the chagrin of Gwen’s other two cats, Vashti and Scarlett). And he loved Gwen with all his heart (and she him).
What an amazing story! Homer is just so loveable, and Gwen reminded me (mostly) of the way I am with my two cats. Any animal lover can’t help but fall in love with Homer. Highly recommended!
What an amazing story! Homer is just so loveable, and Gwen reminded me (mostly) of the way I am with my two cats. Any animal lover can’t help but fall in love with Homer. Highly recommended!
January 24, 2018
Truly an incredibly written book. It's a biography of Gwen Cooper's life with her cats, revolving mainly around her blind cat Homer who is just ADORABLE.
I read this book with my mum and it's been so much fun sharing this story with her. We have both laughed and cried, but thankfully the tears were few and the laughter was plentiful!
I would absolutely recommend this book.
It's perfect for cat lovers, but easy to relate to even if you're not big on cats.
I read this book with my mum and it's been so much fun sharing this story with her. We have both laughed and cried, but thankfully the tears were few and the laughter was plentiful!
I would absolutely recommend this book.
It's perfect for cat lovers, but easy to relate to even if you're not big on cats.
January 9, 2019
This was a fantastic book. Especially if you love cats and you have a handicapped cat of your own, like I do. You can really relate. My cat is not blind like Homer in Homer's Odyessey. My cat is three-legged from birth and I adopted him from a no-kill cat shelter. And he still races around his small home like Homer did everywhere he went. Gwen Cooper said it best, "...those of us who love cats love our cats in a way few can understand."
August 14, 2023
I loved this story of a loyal, loving, joyful, determined little blind cat (and his siblings Vashti and Scarlett) and the woman who loves him. Homer is a survivor and the author, Gwen Cooper, is his champion. The story was delightful, although the moments of consternation and even fright, from having an intruder in her apartment to their separation on September 11 in New York City, keep it from being a treacly, simply "feel-good" story. Every reader who loves pets and stories about overcoming the odds and building a family should read this wonderful book.
My favorite quotes:
"I had referred to Homer as an 'accident.' What I believed in my heart, however, was that Homer had been a surprise. An accident was something you would go out of your way to avoid if you had the chance to do things over. A surprise was something you hadn't even known you'd wanted until you got it" (110).
"Homer taught me that building my life around someone other than myself, making myself responsible for someone else's life, is one of the most rewarding differences between being a kid and an adult.
Being the parent of a special-needs pet means living your life constantly poised on the edge of a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you become a fierce defender of the ways in which your little one is perfectly ordinary - all the things he or she can do that are just like what everybody else does. No need for any extra attention here, thank you very much. And yet, you never lose sight of how absolutely extraordinary that very ordinariness is, how difficult, remarkable, and rewarding that fight to be 'just like everybody else' has been" (280).
My favorite quotes:
"I had referred to Homer as an 'accident.' What I believed in my heart, however, was that Homer had been a surprise. An accident was something you would go out of your way to avoid if you had the chance to do things over. A surprise was something you hadn't even known you'd wanted until you got it" (110).
"Homer taught me that building my life around someone other than myself, making myself responsible for someone else's life, is one of the most rewarding differences between being a kid and an adult.
Being the parent of a special-needs pet means living your life constantly poised on the edge of a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you become a fierce defender of the ways in which your little one is perfectly ordinary - all the things he or she can do that are just like what everybody else does. No need for any extra attention here, thank you very much. And yet, you never lose sight of how absolutely extraordinary that very ordinariness is, how difficult, remarkable, and rewarding that fight to be 'just like everybody else' has been" (280).
October 16, 2018
Another great book from Gwen Cooper! Having read a couple of her other books, I fully expected to enjoy this one. I loved getting to know Homer a little better through the humorous and touching stories Gwen shares. I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the commentary at the end with both Gwen and her husband.
Like Gwen, I'm so thankful my Oscar was passed up by so many people in the 6 weeks he sat in the shelter waiting for his forever home and especially to the one person who briefly adopted and returned him to the shelter. Some cats just need a little extra understanding and patience, but they are so worth it, whatever their challenges.
Oscar deciding I was done listening to stories about other cats.
Like Gwen, I'm so thankful my Oscar was passed up by so many people in the 6 weeks he sat in the shelter waiting for his forever home and especially to the one person who briefly adopted and returned him to the shelter. Some cats just need a little extra understanding and patience, but they are so worth it, whatever their challenges.
Oscar deciding I was done listening to stories about other cats.
October 5, 2018
I loved stepping into Homer's world. What an extraordinary kitty! This is perfect for cat lovers and people who need a little more convincing that cats are amazing.
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