Marty:
What breed of cat often depends on the human's personality, lifestyle and expectations. Some people are very active and may not want a lap cat; others are couch potatoes and surely don't want an Olympian athlete for a pet.
Among the breeds that are very adaptable, laid-back are (1) American Shorthair (the silver classic tabby is particularly striking); (2) Chartreux, a shorthaired French breed that is silvery blue; (3) Ocicat, another shorthair cat that looks like an ocelot and is very athletic; (4) Birman, a longhair breed and semi-lap cat that does NOT have to be combed/brushed because it does not have a downy undercoat that Persians have; and (5) the Maine Coon, a very large, longhaired cat that can grow to 18-24 lbs and which we call "gentle giants." There are quite a few more breeds that would be good. I would stay away from Persians, Exotics for sure because they are high maintenance cats due to daily brushing/combing.
Many men take to Maine Coons, Abys and Ocicats, I think because of the size or "wild" looks.
My parents particularly like American Shorthair cats. There was an American Shorthair in the Stewart Little movie. I recommend Americans for families with very young children. These are cats who would probably tolerate being dressed up in doll clothes and wheeled around in a child's stroller.
Many cat clubs operate rescue programs and, of course, you can often find a very personable cat at a shelter. I've seen shelter rescues shown in our household pet competition at shows, and many have great personalities.
Let me know if I can be of further help.
