Sunday 5 August 2012

Bob


I've just read A Street Cat Named Bob by James Bowen. It tells of how a stray ginger Tom cat, quite literally, saved the life of recovering heroin addict living in sheltered accommodation in north London.

James Bowen's story begins when he first met Bob at a bad time in both their lives - including when they would busk together in Covent Garden, ride London buses & shared a flat - and is told in such a way that it's never mawkish; the redemptive qualities of their relationship comes off the pages very subtly. The book never shies away from the utter desperation and helplessness of a recovering drug addict but demonstrates that by putting purpose, and something to live for, back in your life can be the lifeline you need; you've just got to reach out for it when someone throws it at you.

4 comments:

  1. the family have just got a new kitten and I love how it affects the children who might otherwise be rather "don't carish" the book sounds great.

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  2. I heard this chap being interviewed on Radio 4 a few months ago. He almost had me weeping, and I'm as hard as nails(ish). I might go for the book...

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  3. I wrote this post five months ago and it is still getting over 50 hits a day: Bob has really struck a chord with people. No wonder then that it's soon to be made into a film.

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