Bella and Me: Life in the Service of a Cat

by Herbert Block

The award-winning cartoonist describes and illustrates life with his cat, Bella, relating how he found her and how she gradually took over his home

47 pages, Hardcover

First published November 30, 1991

Reviews

[Stuart Endick · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is a fine addition to the tradition of cat biographies and tributes with the added bonus of Herblock’s evocative cartoons. It was a quick and entertaining read.

[Carson hall · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall I did like this book enough to give it a full 2 1/2 stars. I did have to take into consideration Mr. Block's treatment of Bella. He didn't outright abuse her, but his actions are horribly irresponsible. The way I look at it is that I am so glad that we have come a long way from letting our cats have numerous litters and letting them roam around outside all night. Also I feel he should have turned down the apartment, even though I realize that it was extenuating circumstances.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, as far as I'm concerned, Herblock the cartoonist could do no wrong. But this book doesn't quite live up to the legacy.

First off, the title: Herblock didn't really spend a lifetime with the cat -- neither his lifetime, nor the cat's. He gave it up when he had to move to an apartment where cats weren't allowed.

Second, his attitude toward spaying and neutering pets is outdated and dangerous. I lost track of how many kittens he says Bella had due to her many stray male suitors. That's a good way to spread disease and overpopulate the species.

Oh well. The drawings are nice.

[Melody · Rating 1 out of 5]

Facile and mostly annoying, this story didn't keep me engaged. Herblock's philosophy of cats differs considerably from my own.

[Bill Lively · Rating 4 out of 5]

A small book. A fun read.