"It's Like This, Cat" by Emily Neville, the 1964 Newbery Medal winner, tells the coming-of-age story of Dave Mitchell, a young boy navigating the complexities of life in New York City. With the help of a stray cat he adopts from Crazy Kate, the neighborhood Cat Lady, Dave embarks on a journey that leads him to new friendships and a deeper understanding of his family dynamics, particularly his relationship with his lawyer father and mother, who struggles with asthma. The vibrant backdrop of the city enhances the narrative, showcasing iconic landmarks while exploring themes of maturity, family, and connection.