I Am a Cat
I Am a Cat
Book Brief
Beta470
Novel • Fiction
Japan • Early 1900s
2001
Adult
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
I Am a Cat by Natsume Sōseki is a satirical novel narrated by a nameless cat. Observing the lives of middle-class humans in Meiji-era Japan, the cat provides amusing and insightful commentary on human nature and social norms through interactions with people like a schoolteacher and his acquaintances.
Humorous
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
16,745 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Natsume Sōseki's I Am a Cat is celebrated for its satirical wit and insightful commentary on Meiji-era Japan. The novel's unique feline perspective offers humor and depth, captivating readers with its observations on human nature. Some find its episodic structure and cultural references challenging, but overall, it remains a charming and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read I Am a Cat?
A reader who enjoys I Am a Cat by Natsume Sōseki would likely appreciate satire and social commentary. Fans of witty, observational humor akin to Jerome K. Jerome's Three Men in a Boat or George Orwell's Down and Out in Paris and London might find this book engaging for its critique of Meiji-era Japanese society.
16,745 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
I Am a Cat was initially published serially in the literary magazine Hototogisu between 1905 and 1906, highlighting Natsume Sōseki's rise to prominence in Japanese literature.
The novel is noted for its satirical style, using the perspective of a nameless cat to humorously critique Japanese society during the Meiji era's rapid modernization.
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Sōseki's inspiration for the protagonist's voice is said to have come from his interest in anthropomorphism and literature that explores animal perspectives, which was unusual for the time.
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470
Novel • Fiction
Japan • Early 1900s
2001
Adult
14-18 years
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