How to Read the Mr. Putter & Tabby Books
Written by Cynthia Rylant and illustrated by Arthur Howard, the Mr. Putter & Tabby series is composed of 25 early chapter books. Because the series is highly episodic, there is no complex, overarching narrative arc that requires strict chronological reading. Each book functions beautifully as a standalone adventure.
However, for the best reading experience, it is highly recommended to start with the very first book: Mr. Putter & Tabby Pour the Tea. This introductory book explains how Mr. Putter—an elderly man who is feeling a bit lonely—decides to adopt an old, creaky shelter cat named Tabby. Their instant connection establishes the warm, gentle tone of the entire series and explains the foundation of their daily life together. After the first book, young readers can comfortably jump to any other volume in the series depending on their interest, whether they want to read about cooking, train rides, or painting a porch.
Mr. Putter & Tabby Publication Order
Below is the complete list of all 25 books in the series in order of publication. In some library databases and retail catalogs, the ampersand (&) is occasionally omitted from titles (e.g., "Mr. PutterTabby Bake the Cake"), but they all belong to the same core collection published between 1994 and 2016:
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Pour the Tea (1994)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Walk the Dog (1994)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Bake the Cake (1994)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Pick the Pears (1995)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Row the Boat (1997)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Fly the Plane (1997)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Take the Train (1998)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Toot the Horn (1998)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Paint the Porch (2000)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Feed the Fish (2001)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Catch the Cold (2002)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Stir the Soup (2003)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Write the Book (2004)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Make a Wish (2005)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Spin the Yarn (2006)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby See the Stars (2007)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Run the Race (2008)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Spill the Beans (2009)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Clear the Decks (2010)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Ring the Bell (2011)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Dance the Dance (2012)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Drop the Ball (2013)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Turn the Page (2014)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Smell the Roses (2015)
- Mr. Putter & Tabby Hit the Slope (2016)
Chronological Continuity & Story Caveats
While the internal chronology of the series is very relaxed, there is a gentle progression in the characters' relationships. In the early books, we are introduced to their eccentric neighbor, Mrs. Teaberry, and her energetic, easily excited bulldog, Zeke. Over time, Mr. Putter, Mrs. Teaberry, Tabby, and Zeke form a close-knit "found family," and their shared neighborly dynamic becomes the core of the humor in the later books. Reading the books out of order will not spoil any plot twists, but reading them in order lets children see how these four characters grow to rely on one another for everyday help and companionship.
What to Know Before You Start
Before diving in, it is helpful to understand the target reading level and style of these books. The series is specifically designed for early readers transitioning into chapter books (typically ages 6 to 9, or grades 1 to 3). Each book features short chapters, relatively large print, and simple vocabulary, supported by Arthur Howard's expressive illustrations. Unlike many children's series that feature young protagonists, Cynthia Rylant chose to highlight aging characters who live colorful, active, and joyful lives. Mr. Putter and Tabby are both described as being "a little deaf" and "a bit creaky," presenting a positive, comforting representation of growing older that resonates deeply with young kids and grandparents alike.
The Critical Reception and Legacy
Over the years, the series has received numerous accolades for its gentle storytelling and accessibility. Notably, Mr. Putter & Tabby Turn the Page was selected as a Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book in 2015, which is awarded by the American Library Association to distinguish outstanding books for beginning readers. The warmth of the character dynamics and the playful humor—frequently driven by Zeke the bulldog's antics—have made these stories a staple in classroom libraries across the United States.