Barnaby of Bramble Bay · Book 3 of 4
A funny, big-hearted read-aloud picture book for ages 4–8 about a grumpy cat in a bowler hat and a puppy who won’t get out of the way.
One gust of sea wind, one dusty bowler hat, and Barnaby is suddenly the King of the Alleyway.
Nothing will spoil his royal parade… except perhaps a very small, very friendly puppy who simply will not get out of the way.
A funny, big-hearted story about pride, patience, and making room for someone new.
This is the book where Barnaby meets the Puppy: big brown eyes, a bright red collar and a tail that wags like a windscreen wiper. The Puppy thinks everyone is his friend, especially grumpy cats in bowler hats, and he’s a surprisingly good climber.
Set among the colourful houses of Bramble Bay, it’s a story about pride, patience and learning to share your space, even a sunny wall that was meant for one. Barnaby doesn’t stop being grumpy, but there turns out to be room on the ledge for one more. The Puppy comes back in The Winter Lantern, rather bigger than before.
Give Barnaby a grand, royal voice while he’s wearing the hat, and make the Puppy bouncy and breathless. Save your loudest WOOF! for the puppy who won’t get out of the way. Before you turn to the ending, pause and ask, “Will Barnaby make room for the puppy?”
For more ideas, and questions about friendship and sharing to talk about afterwards, see the read-aloud guide for parents and teachers.
