The novel has been challenged and banned repeatedly, accused of having inappropriate displays of drug, violence, suicide, offensive language, sexually explicit behaviors, and homosexuality. In 2008, the novel was challenged in Clawson, Michigan, for being too racy for middle school students. The specific case involved a mother who found the book inappropriate for her daughter to read for an assignment. Mainly concerned about the offensive language and sex education, the mother brought her concerns to a committee who removed the book as an assignment. As a result, the novel was banned in all schools in the Clawson area and was removed from the classroom curriculum. In 2009, a challenge in Illinois claimed the novel’s depiction of sexism and homosexuality were unsuitable for middle school and high school students, though there were no direct consequences from this challenge. In 2010, there were also many reported challenges based on the way the novel depicts drugs, suicide, violence, sexism, and religious viewpoints.

It may seem treasonous to consider our adorable consorts in this cold light. We are used to thinking of cats as companion animals and dependents, not evolutionary free agents. I began fielding reprochful comments from my mother and sister as soon as my reporting for this book began.

Yet real love requires understanding. And despite our mounting feline fascination, we may actually be giving our cats less than their due.

The correct response to a creature like Cheetoh might not be awwww, but awe.