Mary Allen
Introduction: The Cat Who Came for Christmas
“The Cat Who Came for Christmas” is a heartwarming memoir written by Cleveland Amory, an American author and animal activist. The book chronicles the arrival of a stray cat into Amory’s life during the Christmas season, and the subsequent bond that formed between them. It has become a beloved classic that has captured the hearts of readers for over three decades.
The Story of the Author
Cleveland Amory was a renowned writer and animal activist, known for his advocacy for animal welfare and his witty and insightful writing. He was also a television personality and a former editor of The Saturday Review. Amory was a lifelong cat lover, and he shared his home with many feline companions throughout his life. He was also a founder of The Fund for Animals, a non-profit organization that advocates for animal rights.
How the Cat Found its Way
In the winter of 1983, a stray cat showed up at Amory’s door, seeking shelter from the cold. Amory was hesitant to take in another cat, as he already had several feline companions. However, he couldn’t resist the cat’s charm and decided to let him in. The cat, who had a distinctive white spot on his chest, quickly made himself at home and became a beloved member of the household.
The Beginning of a Friendship
Amory and the cat, whom he named Polar Bear, quickly became inseparable. Polar Bear had a playful and mischievous personality, and he brought joy and laughter into Amory’s life. Amory documented their adventures and antics in his diary, which later became the basis for “The Cat Who Came for Christmas.” Polar Bear’s presence also helped Amory cope with the loss of his previous cat, named Thomas.
The Cat’s Name and Personality
Amory named the cat Polar Bear because of his white fur and his love for cold temperatures. Polar Bear was a unique and lovable cat, with a quirky personality and a playful spirit. He was known for his love of sleeping on Amory’s typewriter and his fondness for playing with tinsel and ornaments during the Christmas season.
The Inspiration Behind the Book
The inspiration for “The Cat Who Came for Christmas” came from Amory’s personal experiences with Polar Bear and his other feline companions. Amory was a skilled writer, and he captured the essence of Polar Bear’s personality and their special bond in his memoir. The book is a testament to the power of the human-animal bond and the joys of having a furry companion.
The Writing Process
Amory wrote “The Cat Who Came for Christmas” in the form of a diary, recording his daily interactions with Polar Bear and his other cats. He also included humorous anecdotes and insights into cat behavior. The book was published in 1987 and quickly became a bestseller. Amory went on to write several sequels to the book, chronicling the further adventures of Polar Bear and his feline companions.
The Publication and Reception
“The Cat Who Came for Christmas” was published in 1987 by Little, Brown and Company. It received critical acclaim and was praised for its humorous and heartfelt portrayal of the human-animal bond. The book became a bestseller and has since been translated into several languages. It has also been adapted into a television movie and an audiobook.
The Impact of the Book
“The Cat Who Came for Christmas” has had a lasting impact on readers, who have been touched by Amory’s poignant and humorous portrayal of his relationship with Polar Bear. The book has become a Christmas classic, and many readers make it a tradition to read it every year during the holiday season. The book has also inspired many people to adopt cats and to become advocates for animal welfare.
The Legacy of the Cat Who Came for Christmas
“The Cat Who Came for Christmas” has left a lasting legacy in the literary world and in the hearts of cat lovers everywhere. The book has inspired sequels, adaptations, and a new generation of feline companions. Amory’s legacy as an animal activist and writer also continues through The Fund for Animals, which he founded in 1967.
The Sequels and Adaptations
Amory wrote several sequels to “The Cat Who Came for Christmas,” including “The Cat and the Curmudgeon” and “The Best Cat Ever.” The book was also adapted into a television movie in 1987, starring Meredith Baxter and Christopher Plummer. The book has also been released as an audiobook, narrated by the author.
Conclusion: A Timeless Christmas Classic
“The Cat Who Came for Christmas” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of readers for over three decades. It is a heartwarming memoir that celebrates the joys of the human-animal bond and the special relationship between cats and their owners. The book has become a beloved Christmas tradition for many readers, and its legacy continues to inspire and delight readers of all ages.