By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Courtney Gustafson's memoir, "Poets Square: A Memoir in Thirty Cats," is an ambitious endeavor that intertwines personal narrative with the complexities of animal rescue. Set against the backdrop of Tucson, Arizona, Gustafson recounts her unexpected immersion into the world of feral cat care upon moving into a rental property inhabited by thirty stray felines. ([penguinrandomhouse.com](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/735683/poets-square-by-courtney-gustafson/?utm_source=openai))

The memoir's premise is undeniably compelling. Gustafson's initial reluctance to engage with the feral cats evolves into a profound commitment, reflecting a journey of personal growth and community involvement. Her candid exploration of mental health struggles, financial constraints, and the ethical dilemmas inherent in animal rescue work adds depth to the narrative. However, the execution of these themes leaves much to be desired.

One of the most glaring issues is the disjointed structure of the memoir. The narrative oscillates between past and present without clear transitions, leading to a fragmented reading experience. Characters are introduced and then abandoned, only to reappear later without sufficient context, which disrupts the flow and coherence of the story. This lack of narrative cohesion suggests a need for more rigorous editing.

Furthermore, Gustafson's introspective passages often come across as self-indulgent. Her preoccupation with how she is perceived by others, coupled with a defensive tone, can be off-putting. For instance, she spends a significant portion of the book justifying her decision to share the cats' stories on social media, which feels repetitive and unnecessary. This defensiveness undermines the authenticity of her narrative and may alienate readers seeking a more straightforward account of her experiences.

The writing style is another point of contention. Gustafson's prose oscillates between overwrought, flowery descriptions and terse, underdeveloped passages. This inconsistency detracts from the overall impact of the memoir. Additionally, the unconventional use of italics to denote speech, rather than thoughts, is jarring and disrupts the reading flow.

On a more positive note, Gustafson's portrayal of the cats themselves is endearing. She imbues each feline with distinct personalities, making them memorable characters in their own right. Her genuine affection for the animals is palpable and provides some of the memoir's most heartfelt moments. However, these instances are overshadowed by the memoir's structural and stylistic shortcomings.

In conclusion, while "Poets Square" offers a unique perspective on the intersection of personal growth and animal rescue, its execution is marred by structural disarray, inconsistent writing, and a self-conscious narrative voice. Readers seeking a cohesive and engaging memoir may find themselves frustrated by these deficiencies.

Recommendation: Read with caution.

written on: 5/8/2025