A Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book "A sweet and nicely different take on the pleasure of reading." —Kirkus   "A perfect selection for storytime or anytime sharing." —School Library Journal   "In the 20 years since the Mr. Putter & Tabby series began, its signature combination of storytelling, wit, and humanity have made it a staple of the beginning reader section." —Booklist     —

09/01/2014
K-Gr 2—Mr. Putter and Tabby go on their most exciting adventure yet: a trip to the library for a special "read with your pet" storytime. The two usually lead a pretty calm existence, but Mr. Putter is willing to try something new because of his fond memories of his teachers reading stories to the class. He shares his news with Mrs. Teaberry, and she signs up, too, bringing her dog Zeke. Mr. Putter is a good library reader and he chooses his book with care. The readings come off without a hitch—or well, almost (Zeke!)—and the group is rewarded with stickers and free bookmarks. This is another solid easy reader from this creative team, with the standard larger font, simple sentences, cartoon illustrations, and excellent use of white space. A perfect selection for storytime or anytime sharing.—Melisa Bailey, Harford County Library System, MD

2014-09-08
The tried-and-true beginning reader series explores the joys of shared reading. Mr. Putter and Tabby are initially depicted as happy with their placid life, and they spend "their favorite quiet times reading." When Mr. Putter finds out about a special storytime offered at the local library that invites community members to read with their pets, he is intrigued. This won't be the same as the solitary shared reading they share at home, but memories of his childhood teacher reading aloud to him in his classroom prompt Mr. Putter to give it a whirl. He shares his plans (and then regrets doing so) with his effervescent neighbor, Mrs. Teaberry, who is the quintessential dog person to Mr. Putter's calmer, cat-loving self. Ultimately, both pet-and-person pairs deliver successful, albeit quite different storytimes to the children at the library, and they leave with both good memories and good books to share with one another. The simple story is broken up into five short chapters, and Howard's pencil, watercolor and gouache illustrations successfully reinforce the gentle humor of the story and characterization. A sweet and nicely different take on the pleasure of reading. (Early reader. 6-8)