The Tiger Who Came to Tea Book Review: Judith Kerr's Classic

The Tiger Who Came to Tea book review: what the story is about

A friendly tiger makes an unexpected visit to Sophie and her mother's home. He joins them for tea and eats everything in sight, from sandwiches to cakes.

He even drinks all the water from the tap. The story is a funny adventure full of friendship and unexpected surprises that young and old readers both enjoy.

Why this classic is still loved

The book has charmed generations of readers with its playful storytelling. Judith Kerr's pictures and humorous narrative work for children and adults alike.

Its imaginative idea, lovable characters and gentle humour make it a favourite for bedtime, classroom storytime and family reading. Themes of hospitality, friendship and the joy of unexpected visitors keep it a classic of children's literature.

The tiger joins them for tea, devouring everything in sight, from sandwiches to cakes, and even drinking all the water from the tap.

The illustrations

Judith Kerr's illustrations are colourful and full of small details. From the cosy kitchen to the busy city streets, they capture Sophie's world with warmth.

Sophie, her mother and the mischievous tiger all have expressive faces and lively poses. Kerr's distinctive style gives each page depth and personality.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea book for kids: age and book type

It is a children's picture book suited to readers aged 3 and up who enjoy stories about friendship, imagination and shared experiences.

The simple narrative and artwork make it right for reading aloud to young children, or for independent reading by early readers.

How the book sparks imagination

Following Sophie's encounter with the tiger, children enter a world where anything is possible. The book encourages imaginative play and creative thinking, and its humour brings plenty of laughter.

Play it out Set up a pretend tea party after reading, with a soft toy as the tiger. Let your child decide what the tiger eats next. It is the easiest imaginative play you will ever plan.

About the author, Judith Kerr

Judith Kerr was a celebrated author and illustrator of children's books. With The Tiger Who Came to Tea she created a timeless classic that still delights readers of all ages.

Similar books to try

• "Mog the Forgetful Cat" by Judith Kerr
• "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle
• "Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak

Gift it right: The Tiger Who Came to Tea as a birthday gift

A classic that suits ages 3 and up is one of the safest books as birthday gifts for kids, because it gets read for years. A name label inside the cover and a name sticker on the wrapping make it feel personal.

See all personalised book labels, or browse our gifts for kids to pair the book with something more.

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