The Cat Who Came for Christmas

Cleveland Amory, an animal rights activist and writer, chronicles his unexpected journey into cat ownership after rescuing a stray cat on Christmas Eve. The book follows his first year with the white cat he names Polar Bear, as both human and feline adjust to their new living arrangement. Set in New York City, this memoir features appearances by notable figures from Amory's social circle, including Cary Grant and Walter Cronkite. Amory interweaves his experiences with Polar Bear alongside his ongoing work in animal rights advocacy and his transformation from a non-cat person to a devoted cat guardian. Through humor and straightforward storytelling, The Cat Who Came for Christmas explores themes of companionship, personal growth, and the unexpected ways animals can change human lives. This bestselling memoir resonates with both cat lovers and readers new to the world of feline companionship.

Readers call this a heartwarming holiday memoir about a stray cat's rescue and adjustment to life with the author. Most reviews emphasize the book's humor and wit in describing the developing bond between cat and human. Readers appreciated: - The authentic portrayal of cat behavior and personalities - Dry humor and clever observations - Historical context about animal welfare work - Holiday spirit without being overly sentimental Common criticisms: - Too much focus on the author's background/career - Slow pacing in middle sections - Some found the writing style pretentious Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (4,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (190+ ratings) Representative review: "Amory captures the reluctant transformation from confirmed bachelor to devoted cat parent with self-deprecating wit. Though it meanders at times, the story rings true for anyone who's been chosen by a cat." - Goodreads reviewer

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🔹 Cleveland Amory founded the Fund for Animals in 1967, which became one of America's largest animal protection organizations. 🔹 The cat from the book, named Polar Bear, went on to become a celebrity in his own right and appeared on numerous television shows with Amory. 🔹 The book spent twelve weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and spawned two sequels: "The Cat and the Curmudgeon" and "The Best Cat Ever." 🔹 Prior to his animal advocacy work, Amory was a well-known television critic for TV Guide and wrote social satires about Boston's upper class. 🔹 The story led to a surge in cat adoptions during the 1987 holiday season, particularly of white cats from shelters across America.