Millions of Cats summary

The Old Couple's Quest for a Cat

In Millions of Cats by Wanda Gag, we are introduced to an old man and an old woman who live in a tiny house. They are lonely and decide to get a cat as a pet. The old man sets out, promising to bring back a cat for his wife. However, he returns with not one cat, but millions and billions and trillions of cats!

Initially, this seems like a dream come true. The old couple is overjoyed at the sight of so many adorable cats. They are all different – long-haired, short-haired, big, small, fat, and thin. The couple is unable to decide which cat to keep, so they decide to keep them all.

The Cats' Hunger Games

At first, the couple is delighted with their large feline family. However, they soon realize they have a problem. The cats are always hungry and start fighting over food. The old man and woman are unable to feed them all, and soon the cats start eating each other.

Distraught at the sight of the fighting and starving cats, the old man and woman decide to send them away. They tell the cats to go find the prettiest cat in the world, hoping that this will solve their problem.

The Last Cat Standing

The cats set out on their quest, but only one cat returns. This one cat, who was too old to fight and too wise to be caught up in the chaos, is named the prettiest cat in the world by the old man and woman. They decide to keep this cat as their pet, and the old couple is finally happy.

The story ends on a sweet note, with the old man and woman content with their one, beautiful, and peaceful cat. They have learned that sometimes, having the most isn't always the best, and that quality is more important than quantity.

A Classic Tale of Moderation

Published in 1928, Millions of Cats is one of the oldest American picture books still in print. It has been loved for its simple yet powerful message - a cautionary tale about the consequences of excess and the value of moderation. The book has won numerous awards and continues to be a beloved classic for children and adults alike.

In conclusion, Millions of Cats by Wanda Gag is a timeless story that teaches us about the importance of making wise choices and appreciating what we have. It’s a simple, yet profound lesson wrapped in a delightful tale of an old couple and their quest for the perfect pet. It’s a story that will continue to enchant and educate readers for generations to come.