Dewey the Library Cat

May 3, 2010
Librarian Myron’s popular adult memoir, Dewey: The Small Town Library Cat Who Touched the World, about the adopted cat who became the mascot of her Iowa library, finds yet another life in this middle-grade adaptation, which also follows Myron and Witter’s 2009 picture book version. At its core, the story—Spencer Public Library staff and patrons rally around the tiny ginger-colored kitten abandoned in the book drop on a freezing winter’s night—remains as heartwarming as ever. Young animal lovers, especially, will enjoy learning about how the cat, Dewey Readmore Books, endeared himself to library visitors (he was always happy to receive a petting or to nap on welcoming laps) and how his fame spread nationally and beyond U.S. shores thanks to profiles in various cat publications. Myron’s friendly and pleasantly pragmatic voice, as well as her mostly judicious selection of anecdotes, brings poignancy to the tale of her special bond with Dewey. Her story also offers readers another bit of insight into how animals and humans can emotionally enrich each other’s lives. Ages 8–12.

May 15, 2010
Grades 4-8 From the opening chapter, when librarian Vicki Myron finds a fragile, freezing kitten in the book return, children will be hooked on her heartwarming story about Dewey Readmore Books. Eliminating most of Myrons personal story as well as observations on economic and social change found in the adult book on which it was based, this shorter childrens adaptation focuses squarely on Dewey. His job description, a list of his likes and dislikes, and other funny pieces from the original reappear here. Anecdotes such as Deweys fascination with rubber bands, his bizarre behavior during a bat invasion, and his finicky eating habits are ideal booktalk material. So are descriptions of Deweys tender, intuitive interactions with people of all ages and backgrounds. Final chapters cover Deweys declining health and eventual death with grace and sensitivity. Part cat story, part library story, this appealing adaptation will charm even reluctant readers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)