Pete the Cat's Train Trip Book Review: A Rhyming Train Adventure
Pete and his friends ride a train past cities, countryside and animals. Story, illustrations, who it suits and how it builds vocabulary and curiosity.
Few things excite a small child like a train. The whistle at the station, the window seat, the fields rushing past. Pete the Cat's Train Trip brings that feeling into a picture book.
In this Pete the Cat's Train Trip book review we look at the story, the pictures, who it suits and what children learn along the ride.
The short answer Pete the Cat's Train Trip is a picture book based on Pete the Cat, the character created by James Dean. Pete and his friends take a train journey past animals, landscapes and landmarks, told in catchy rhymes with colourful pictures. Its simple text suits young children and early readers.

ISBN: 9781338113327
Pete the Cat's Train Trip book review: what the story is about
Pete and his friends set off on a train journey full of fun and surprises. As they chug along the tracks, they meet animals and pass landscapes and landmarks, from busy cities to scenic countryside.
The catchy rhymes and colourful pictures carry young readers along for the whole ride through Pete's world.
Why children and families love it
Families like the book for its storytelling, lovable characters and positive messages. Pete the Cat is a favourite with children around the world, and his adventures speak to little ones who are eager to explore new places and make new friends.
The rhythmic text and bright pictures make it easy for even the youngest readers. Its messages about friendship, curiosity and adventure make it a good addition to any child's library.
The illustrations
The pictures are vibrant and full of playful details. The colourful train cars and the cast of characters capture the energy and excitement of Pete's journey.
Pete and his friends are drawn with warmth and humour, so fans of the series will recognise them straight away. Each page invites children to step into Pete's world and join the adventure.
Pete the Cat's Train Trip book for kids: format and who it suits
It is a picture book designed for young children. The sturdy pages and large format suit storytime as well as independent reading.
It also works well for early readers who are just beginning to build reading skills, with simple text and familiar characters that encourage them to join in.
How it helps a child's development
- Language: new words about trains, travel and the world around them build vocabulary.
- Curiosity: children see different landscapes and environments, which sparks questions about the world.
- Imagination: children picture themselves riding along with Pete, which feeds creative, imaginative play.
Travel tip Take this book on your next train journey. Let your child spot the same things Pete sees out of the window: cities, fields and animals.
About the author and illustrator, James Dean
The book is based on Pete the Cat, the character created by James Dean. It features his illustrations, known for their colourful and expressive style that brings Pete and his adventures to life.
Similar books in this category
- "Pete the Cat and the Cool Cat Boogie" by James Dean
- "Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes" by James Dean
- "Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes" by James Dean
Gift it right: Pete the Cat's Train Trip as a birthday gift
A sturdy picture book with a favourite character and a train adventure is among the easiest books as birthday gifts for kids who love vehicles or cats. Add a name label inside the cover so it comes home from school, and a cat-themed name sticker on the wrapping.
See all personalised book labels, or browse our gifts for kids to pair the book with something more.
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Frequently asked questions
Who created Pete the Cat?
Pete the Cat was created by James Dean, who also illustrates the book.
What happens in Pete the Cat's Train Trip?
Pete and his friends take a train journey and pass animals, landscapes and landmarks, from busy cities to the countryside.
Is Pete the Cat's Train Trip good for early readers?
Yes. The simple, rhyming text and familiar characters suit children who are just beginning to read.
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