
Reach for this book when your child is hesitant to try a new activity because they are afraid of looking silly or not being immediately 'good' at it. It is a gentle, humorous story about two elderly neighbors, Mr. Putter and Mrs. Teaberry, who decide to join a band. When they realize they cannot find a band that suits them, they decide to make their own music at home, even if it sounds a bit like a 'tooting' disaster. The story beautifully models a growth mindset and the importance of finding joy in the process rather than the perfection of the result. It is an ideal choice for building confidence in early readers, showing that even adults face nerves and make mistakes when learning something new. The bond between the characters and their pets adds a layer of comfort and warmth to the experience.
The book is entirely secular and safe. It touches on the physical limitations of aging in a lighthearted, realistic way, such as Mr. Putter's wind power while blowing the horn. There are no heavy themes.





















Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewA 6-year-old who is perfectionistic and perhaps afraid to sign up for soccer or music lessons because they don't want to fail. It is also excellent for children who have a close relationship with an older adult or grandparent.
This book can be read cold. The text is simple and the illustrations by Arthur Howard provide much of the comedic timing. A parent might choose this after hearing their child say, 'I'm not going to try that because I'm bad at it,' or seeing a child quit a hobby after one difficult session.
Younger children (5-6) will find the physical comedy of the pets' reactions to the loud noises hilarious. Older children (7-8) will better grasp the social dynamic between the two neighbors and the irony of 'tooting' a horn badly.
Rylant's ability to treat elderly characters with dignity while allowing them to be silly is unique. This series avoids the 'grumpy old man' trope, offering instead a model of lifelong learning and friendship.
Mr. Putter and his fine cat Tabby, along with their eccentric neighbor Mrs. Teaberry and her good dog Zeke, decide to join a band. After realizing that existing bands are too professional or too loud, they decide to buy their own instruments. Mr. Putter chooses a silver horn, and Mrs. Teaberry chooses a trombone. They practice with hilarious results, eventually realizing that the best part of music is the fun you have with friends.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.