From School Library Journal
Grade 1-3-Mr. Putter and his cat, Tabby, are friends and neighbors of Mrs. Teaberry and her bulldog, Zeke. When Mrs. T suggests taking a train ride, they load up games, binoculars, doggy lollipops, and a blanket for naps, only to discover that pets are not allowed. Undaunted, Mr. Putter and Mrs. Teaberry go home and return to the train station, having hidden Tabby and Zeke in a picnic basket and knapsack. They sneak the animals onboard and enjoy a wonderful trip. The charm and whimsy of this story are marred only by the devious behavior of the adult characters, which sends the message that it is acceptable to disregard rules that are not to one's liking. If the friends did not want to leave their creatures at home, they could have found another activity. That said, the narrative is endearing for its humor and for the lively illustrations that capture both the lovable personalities of Tabby and Zeke and the affection showered on them by their indulgent owners.
Diane Janoff, Queens Borough Public Library, NYCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Elderly Mr. Putter has mixed emotions about elderly Mrs. Teaberry's ideas, which are sometimes rather peculiar, involving "running fast or wearing feathers." But this time her suggestion of a train ride, with their respective pets in tow, seems perfect. Unfortunately, the ticket agent isn't enthusiastic: "Pets can't go on trains." Is this the end of what could be a wonderful day? Certainly not. Mr. Putter comes up with a mischievous idea of his own. As in their previous books together, Rylant and Howard accomplish a lot in a few pages--good comedy, good characterizations (wonderfully depicted in Howard's sprightly art), and a nicely controlled vocabulary, all of which combine to make this a delightful easy-to-read choice.
Stephanie Zvirin
