The Recommended Reading Order
The Nine Lives series, written by Ben M. Baglio under the pen name Lucy Daniels, is a delightful children's book series that is best read in its chronological order. Because the series is split into two distinct parts—the first part tracking the kittens as they are adopted and the second part following their lives in their new homes—reading them sequentially ensures you follow the development of each kitten's journey.
Here is the recommended reading order, which aligns with how the two trilogies are structured:
Part One: Finding Their Forever Homes
- Ginger, Nutmeg and Clove (1999) – Introduces the first three kittens: bold Ginger, mischievous Nutmeg, and shy Clove.
- Emerald, Amber and Jet (1999) – Follows the next three kittens: Emerald's cinematic theater adventures, Amber's dog-like playfulness, and Jet adjusting to life in a pet shop.
- Daisy, Buttercup and Weed (1999) – Introduces the final three: heroic Daisy, colorful Buttercup, and little Weed.
Part Two: The Return to the Kittens' Lives
- The Return of Ginger, Nutmeg and Clove (2001) – Reconnects with the first three kittens as they face new obstacles with their young owners.
- The Return of Daisy, Buttercup and Weed (2001) – Explores how the next group of kittens is settling into their permanent environments.
- The Return of Emerald, Amber and Jet (2001) – Concludes the series by catching up with the remaining three kittens.
Publication Order vs. Cataloging Order
While the internal narrative chronology follows the two trilogies in a parallel structure, cataloging databases and retail listings sometimes display slight variations in the order of the first three books. For instance, some lists record Emerald, Amber and Jet as the first volume published in 1999, while others list Ginger, Nutmeg and Clove as the official debut. Because all three books in the first trilogy were released in 1999 and introduce completely different groups of kittens from Bracken's litter, you can read the first three books in any order. However, you must finish the first trilogy before moving on to the "Return" books published in 2001.
What to Know Before You Start
The Nine Lives series is set in a cozy, idealized English village and revolves around the Bradman family's cat, Bracken, who gives birth to a large litter of nine kittens. The core theme of the books centers on the responsibility of pet ownership, empathy, and finding a place where you truly belong. Written for readers aged 8 and up, the series is highly accessible and uses warm, engaging prose. Although published under the name Lucy Daniels, the series was conceived by Ben M. Baglio (famous for the Animal Ark series) and brought to life in collaboration with a dedicated team of ghostwriters.