Structure

The book is divided into 21 chapters of slightly varying lengths. The chapters are each identified by number and title, and the titles give a clue about some event that takes place in that chapter. For example, Chapter 8 is titled “Making it Official.” In that chapter, James took Bob to be microchipped, which made James the legal owner of the cat. Chapter 10 is titled “Santa Paws.” This chapter took place in the days leading up to Christmas. Belle purchased gifts for Bob that included a T-shirt with the words “Santa Paws.” James dressed Bob in that shirt when they did their final performance before Christmas, and several people commented on the wording.

The main story line flows in chronological order, but there are many flashbacks that combine to form James's frame story. These are mainly presented as James's memories, usually tied into the events that are taking place...