Quick Take

How much of an impact can an animal have? How many lives can one cat touch? How is it possible for an abandoned kitten to transform a small library, save a classic American town, and eventually become famous around the world? You can't even begin to answer those questions until you hear the charming story of Dewey Readmore Books, the beloved library cat of Spencer, Iowa.Dewey's story starts in the worst possible way. Only a few weeks old, on the coldest night of the year, he was stuffed into the returned book slot at the Spencer Public Library. He was found the next working by library director Vicki Myron, a single mother who had survived the loss of her family farm, a breast cancer scare, and an alcoholic husband. Dewey won her heart, and the hearts of the staff, by pulling himself up and hobbling on frostbitten feet to nudge each of hem in a gesture of thanks and love. For the next nineteen years, he never stopped charming the people of Spencer with this enthusiasm, warmth, humility (for a cat), and, above all, his sixth sense about who needed him most.As his fame grew from town to town, then state to state, and finally, amazingly, worldwide, Dewey became more than just a friend; he became a source of pride for an extraordinary Heartland farming town pulling its way slowly back from the greatest crisis in its long history.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World

Introduction

"Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World" is a heartwarming and inspiring book that tells the story of a beloved library cat named Dewey Readmore Books. Written by Vicki Myron, the book recounts how Dewey transformed the small town of Spencer, Iowa, and eventually became famous around the world. From his humble beginnings as a cold and frostbitten kitten found in a library book return slot to his nineteen-year reign as the library cat of Spencer, Dewey's story captivated readers worldwide. This book review will delve into the author's background, analyze the views of readers, and provide reasons for both recommending and not recommending this book.

About Vicki Myron

Vicki Myron, the author of "Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World," is a seasoned librarian with a passion for books and cats. Born and raised in Spencer, Iowa, Myron graduated from Hartley High School and later attended Mankato State and Emporia State University. She served as the director of the Spencer Public Library for 25 and a half years before retiring to write this book. Myron's love for literature extends beyond fiction, as she also enjoys reading non-fiction works about abused children and other topics.

Analysis of Views

A Heartwarming Story: Many readers found Dewey's story heartwarming and inspiring. They appreciated how a small kitten with a frostbitten paw could capture the hearts of an entire town and eventually become famous around the world. The book's ability to evoke feelings of love, warmth, and connection resonated with readers.
A Tribute to Small Towns: Readers appreciated the way Dewey's story showcased the power of small towns and their people. They felt that the book highlighted the resilience and community spirit of Spencer, Iowa, and other small towns like it. It served as a reminder that even in challenging times, people can come together to create something special.
A Source of Comfort: For readers who have experienced loss or hardship in their lives, Dewey's story provided comfort and solace. The book reminded them that even in the darkest moments, there is hope and love to be found. Dewey's unwavering loyalty and affection for those around him touched their hearts deeply.
A Reminder of Animal Magic: Many readers found Dewey's story to be a reminder of the magic that animals can bring into our lives. They appreciated how a cat could bring joy, healing, and unity to a community. The book served as a testament to the power of animals to touch our hearts and bring us together.
A Well-Written Tribute: Readers praised Vicki Myron's writing style, finding it engaging and honest. They appreciated her willingness to share her personal experiences and insights alongside Dewey's story. Myron's ability to convey both humor and emotion made the book relatable and enjoyable to read.

Reasons for Recommendation

Uplifting Story: Dewey's story is an uplifting and heartwarming tale that will leave readers feeling inspired. The book's ability to evoke feelings of love, warmth, and connection makes it a perfect read for anyone seeking comfort or a reminder of the power of kindness.
Celebration of Community: "Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World" celebrates the spirit of community and highlights the impact one individual can have on others. It serves as a reminder that even in small towns, people can come together to create something extraordinary.
Tribute to Animals: The book pays tribute to animals like Dewey who bring joy, healing, and unity to our lives. It reminds readers of the special bond we share with our pets and how they can positively impact our lives in ways we never imagined.
Engaging Writing Style: Vicki Myron's writing style is engaging, honest, and relatable. Her ability to convey both humor and emotion makes the book enjoyable to read, even for those who are not cat lovers. Her personal experiences and insights add depth and authenticity to Dewey's story.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Focus on Dewey: Some readers felt that the book deviated from its central focus on Dewey Readmore Books. While they appreciated learning about Vicki Myron's personal experiences and the history of Spencer, Iowa, they felt that these elements overshadowed Dewey's story at times. They wanted more emphasis on the cat himself and his impact on the community.
Slow Pacing: A few readers found the book's pacing slow at times, particularly when discussing Vicki Myron's personal life or delving into the history of Spencer, Iowa. They felt that these sections detracted from the central narrative of Dewey's story and made the book feel disjointed at times.

Conclusion

"Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World" is a heartwarming and inspiring book that tells the story of a beloved library cat named Dewey Readmore Books. Vicki Myron's writing style captures both the humor and emotion of Dewey's journey from an abandoned kitten to a celebrated figure in Spencer, Iowa, and beyond. While some readers felt that the book strayed from its central focus on Dewey, others found it uplifting, celebratory of community, and a tribute to animals who bring joy into our lives. Overall, "Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World" is a recommended read for those seeking a heartwarming story about love, resilience, and the power of kindness.