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An excellent book, but the subject matter may be a dealbreaker for some readers
Note: This book, while focused foremost on connecting rescued cats with happy forever families, does not shy away from tragedy. This is a childrens' nonfiction book, and treats the topic in a manner appropriate for its intended audience (mid- to late-elementary school aged children). However, if references to animal cruelty, abuse, illness, and death are upsetting, proceed with caution. A more complete advisory list is provided at the end of the review in spoiler text.
In light of the above, the "entertainment" rating above would be better described as "engagement" here. This book kept me thoroughly gripped (although I had to take breaks at several points due to emotional difficulty) as I read about Miyuki Hasegawa, her introduction to becoming a cat owner/rescuer/fosterer, and the families whose lives intersect with hers. Each chapter highlights a separate family: some had a long history of cats in their family before adopting, others never had the thought cross their mind previously. All of them are connected by Hasegawa, and her own journey into cat fostering and adoption advocacy is detailed in the prologue and epilogue. As one would expect, the book also gets into the details of cat welfare and rescues in Japan, and makes it clear just how much of a difference people like Hasegawa make for people and cats alike.
Grayscale photos of the cats show up throughout the book, along with photos of the families at the very end. Adoption profiles for most of the cats (possibly all; as of this review I read this book over half a year ago) show up when they first enter each family's story. A selection of questions from Hasegawa's applicant questionnaire is provided at the end of the book, to help young readers understand the responsibility involved in cat adoption.
An excellent book, but emotionally very rough at times; your mileage will vary.
Language learning highlights:
Content advisory: animal abuse and abandonment (the prologue is particularly upsetting); on-page illness and death of a pet (chapter 2); childhood cancer (chapter 4; successfully treated); puppy/kitten mills (referenced in chapter 1, more prominent in the epilogue).