The Little Book of Bob by James Bowen

The Little Book of Bob

by James Bowen

The new book from James and street cat Bob.

'One thing I've known about Bob from the very beginning is that he possesses a wisdom that is unusual, even in cats. In the decade since we met he's grown even wiser in my eyes. This book is a collection of the insights I've gained during my years with Bob.'


In the spring of 2007, busker James Bowen came across an injured ginger tom cat in the hallway of his shelter in north London. What he didn't know was that this would be the start of a friendship that would turn both their lives around, and lead to A Street Cat Named Bob, the international bestseller that tells the story of their friendship.

The Little Book of Bob is a collection of the wisdom James has learnt from Bob throughout the years, as they go through thick and thin together. From the power of friendship to staying calm and finding the joys in a simple life, let Bob be your guide on how to navigate the ins and outs of life like a wise street cat.

(P)2019 Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Reviewed by Quirky Cat on

4 of 5 stars

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I received a copy of The Little Book of Bob through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

The Little Book of Bob is the latest novel to come out from James and his Street Cat Bob. But you don’t have to have read the other novels in order to understate or appreciate this one, I can promise you that much.
This is a novel made up of all the life lessons that James Bowen learned from his adorable ginger tom cat, Bob. Bob was found on the streets (well, not literally, but very close to it) back in 2007, he was injured and alone.
James took little Bob in, and it changed his life forever. This is a non-fiction novel, and one that promises to move any animal cat or animal lover out there. I can assure you that my eyes misted up on more than one occasion, thanks to this sweet tribute to sweet and wise Bob.

“He certainly rescued me. When I look back on it, my life had been a real mess before I met him. For a decade or more, I’d been an addict and had spent an extended period homeless, sleeping rough or in shelters. I had been down to my last chance – on my ninth life, if you like. I credit him with helping me to turn things around.”

I picked up The Little Book of Bob because I love cats, and that means I automatically love anybody who’s taken the time to learn a life lesson from their cat. I have never read any of the other books about Bob and his owner, but I didn’t let that scare me away.
And honestly? I’m happy I made that decision. The Little Book of Bob was delightful and heartwarming. It’s impossible not to read this book without a smile on your face. Though I meant it when I said it made my eyes mist up a time or two. It was absolutely worth it.
All cat lovers should check out this charming read. It’s everything the description promises, but it’s also so much more. And it’s something many a cat owner will resonate with.

For more reviews check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 27 November, 2019: Finished reading
  • 27 November, 2019: Reviewed