Heartfelt Connections in Cat’s People
When I first spotted Cat’s People by the talented Filipino and Spanish author, I was instantly drawn in—not just by its captivating cover, but by the promise of a heartwarming tale centered around a black cat. As a lifelong cat lover (right after dogs, of course), I couldn’t resist picking up this novel that seemed perfect for a cozy afternoon of reading. Little did I know, it would turn out to be the gentle soul-soothing balm I didn’t realize I needed.
In Cat’s People, we explore the intertwined lives of five distinctive characters and the charming black cat, aptly named Cat, who serves as both their confidant and catalyst for connection. The ensemble cast—Omar the cheerful mailman, Núria the cat-adoring barista, Collin the struggling novelist, Bong the grieving bodega owner, and Lily the ambitious Georgia native—brings a rich spectrum of backgrounds and personal struggles to the forefront. Each character’s arc is unique, yet they all share a common goal of forging a sense of belonging amidst the bustling backdrop of New York City.
What struck me the most was the beautiful way in which the found-family trope was woven throughout the narrative. While serendipitous coincidences abound, they feel refreshingly heartwarming rather than contrived. I found myself chuckling at the amusing aspects of Cat’s own perspective, especially how he playfully dubbed each human he encountered with their own names for him. It added a layer of whimsy that made reading from his point of view an absolute delight.
The writing style is straightforward and accessible, a choice I appreciated as it aligned perfectly with my desire for an easy read. The narrative is woven seamlessly between different characters; while Núria stands out slightly more, each character receives their fair share of the spotlight. I did find myself wishing for a bit more descriptive prose, especially to capture the vibrancy of New York City, but the emotional depth carried the story just fine.
Though the characters lean towards an overly sweet portrayal—perhaps a smidge unrealistic—their personal struggles, ranging from grief to ambition, are relatable and poignant. The author’s genuine affection for cats shines through brilliantly, making Cat’s experiences ring true for all fellow cat lovers. And let’s not forget the adorable chihuahua, Sinatra, who makes a charming minor appearance!
While the ending felt somewhat stretched and could have benefited from a bit of trimming, the overall vibe of the story is undeniably uplifting. This debut adult fiction work left me with a warm feeling, even if I experienced fleeting moments of frustration at the simplicity of certain aspects.
I wholeheartedly recommend Cat’s People to anyone looking for a comforting read filled with relatable characters and a sprinkling of romance, all tied together by the enchanting narrative of a black cat. Whether you’re a cat person or simply in need of a heartwarming story, this book will surely appeal to your emotions. I’m grateful it came into my life at just the right moment—even a self-proclaimed dog lover like me found joy nestled among the pages.
4 stars. Happy reading!