The cat with seven names is told from the viewpoint of six lonely people in an urban community.  This large, obviously over-fed cat wanders into each home and is welcomed as a stray.  Each person gives him a different name as they enjoy the cat’s company for a while.  One day, the cat is almost hit by a car – the driver of which is in search for her missing cat!  As each of the neighborhood people gather to check on “their” cat, they begin talking to one another and new friendships are made.  Davenier’s pastel illustrations add many details to the story throughout the book.  The front end-pages show everyone going about their separate lives.  As the cat enters each home, different neighbors can be seen in the background.  By the final end-pages, the individuals are involved in friendly conversations as the cat calmly watches from the side.