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Mr. Putter & Tabby Take the Train

#8 of 25 in Mr. Putter & Tabby Series

illustrations by
4.19
on Goodreads (666)

What’s inside...

Mr. Putter and his fine cat, Tabby, are going for a train ride with their neighbors, Mrs. Teaberry and her good dog, Zeke. They've planned the perfect afternoon trip. But when they get to the station, they're in for a big surprise: No pets are allowed on the train! It looks like the trip is off, until Mr. Putter comes up with a clever idea to ensure they can all enjoy the train ride together.
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

6-9

Length

44 pages

Text complexity

Discussion points

What do you think Mr. Putter and Tabby were feeling when they decided to take the train? How would you feel in that situation?
Can you describe a favorite part of the adventure they had? Why did it stand out to you?
How do Mr. Putter and Tabby show they care about each other during their trip?
If you could choose any destination, where would you take a train to and why?
What is something new you learned from Mr. Putter and Tabby's experience?
Tip: Role play these questions
Foster a deep connection with your child by actively listening to their responses and sharing your own feelings about the story. Encourage imaginative thinking by asking your child to visualize different scenes or alternate endings. Reinforce comprehension by relating aspects of the story to your child’s own experiences, helping them connect personal emotions with the characters. Lastly, use descriptive language from the book to enhance vocabulary and language skills.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and companionship
Explanation: Mr. Putter and his cat, Tabby, along with their neighbors Mrs. Teaberry and her dog, Zeke, demonstrate strong bonds of friendship as they navigate an exciting train trip together.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and nurture relationships, understanding that companionship can make everyday adventures more enjoyable and memorable.
Example Lesson: Embracing new experiences
Explanation: Despite initial anxieties, Mr. Putter and his friends conquer their fears about traveling on a train, showcasing resilience and openness to new experiences.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face new situations and challenges with curiosity and courage, ultimately expanding their horizons.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and adaptability
Explanation: Throughout the train ride, Mr. Putter, Tabby, Mrs. Teaberry, and Zeke encounter and cleverly manage various minor mishaps, exemplifying effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of adaptability and thinking creatively to resolve unexpected issues, skills that are invaluable in everyday life.
Example Lesson: The joy of shared adventures
Explanation: The characters' collective experience on the train trip highlights the enjoyment found in shared activities, emphasizing communal fun and excitement.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of participating in group activities, enhancing their social skills and enjoyment in shared experiences.
Example Lesson: Patience and understanding
Explanation: Throughout the book, especially in dealing with Zeke's antics, the characters consistently exhibit patience and understanding towards each other.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to practice patience and empathy in their interactions with others, fostering a supportive and harmonious environment.

Mr. Putter & Tabby Take the Train by Cynthia Rylant