Mr. Putter & Tabby Walk the Dog
By Cynthia Rylant
The Story
When neighbor Mrs. Teaberry hurts her foot, an elderly man and his fine cat Tabby agree to walk her dog Zeke for a week — only to discover Zeke tugs, wraps leashes around trees, and chases every dog in sight.
Why It's Special
For families who know that one wild, uncooperative dog can turn a simple favor into a week-long ordeal, this one lands with a knowing laugh.
- Big idea: Helping a neighbor doesn't always go smoothly — and doing it anyway is what friendship looks like.
- Vibes: Gentle, funny, and easygoing, with the low-key comedy of a plan that keeps going sideways.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy funny animal antics
- like cozy, everyday-life stories
- are working on following through on a promise, even when it's hard
- respond well to calm pacing with a gentle sense of humor
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What kinds of trouble did Zeke cause for Mr. Putter and Tabby while on his walks?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Mr. Putter felt when he realized Zeke wasn't the easy dog he expected?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever offered to help a neighbor and it turned out to be harder than you thought?
- Character: Why do you think Mr. Putter and Tabby kept walking Zeke even when it got difficult?
- Imagination: If you were walking a dog like Zeke, what would you do to keep him from tugging on the leash?
