The World According to Bob

Starred review from March 31, 2014
Prior to publishing his bestselling memoir, A Street Cat Named Bob, Bowen and his feline sidekick were barely scraping by when opportunity struck in the form of a newspaper story, entitled "Two Cool Cats," profiling the odd couple. The paper set off a wave of interest on Bowen and Bob, culminating in a book deal. Still reeling from the abrupt 180-degree turn his life took, Bowen recounts his transition to overnight celebrity in this equally engaging prequel. Cat-lovers expecting a heartwarming account of Bob's quirky behavior will certainly get that, but Bowen's focus is on the realities of homelessness. Harassment from uninformed, self-appointed do-gooders concerned about Bob's welfare, heartless citizens having a laugh at his expense, and a harrowing encounter with a fellow addict who overdosed on Bowen's doorstep are just a few of the anecdotes here; Bowen isn't looking to shock anyone or paint himself as a martyr. It's this smartly balanced blend of humor, pathos, and humility that makes Bowen such an engaging narrator, and it's no wonder the unlikely duo have inspired so many followers on Facebook as well as in real life. Bowen has crafted a terrific sequel to an amazing and inspiring story that's just beginning.