The Tale of Peter Rabbit
A naughty young rabbit sneaks into a garden he has been told to avoid.
The Tale of Peter Rabbit is a classic picture book by Beatrix Potter, first published in 1902. It is number 11 in our list of the best children’s books of all time. A naughty young rabbit sneaks into a garden he has been told to avoid.
What is The Tale of Peter Rabbit about?
Peter Rabbit ignores his mother’s warning and squeezes into Mr McGregor’s garden to eat the vegetables. He is chased, loses his jacket and shoes and has a very narrow escape.
Beatrix Potter first told the story in a letter to a child in 1893, had it printed privately in 1901 and then published by Frederick Warne in 1902. Her small, delicate watercolours make the book a pleasure to look at closely.
Book details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Author | Beatrix Potter |
| Illustrator | Beatrix Potter |
| First published | 1902 |
| Type | Classic picture book |
| Age guide | 2 to 6 |
Why children enjoy The Tale of Peter Rabbit
- A short story that fits small hands and small attention spans.
- A gentle moral, told without lecturing.
- Beautiful, detailed pictures to look at over and over.
Reading and talking tips
- Look for the small details in each picture.
- Ask: why did Peter go into the garden?
- Visit a real vegetable garden and name what is growing.
About Beatrix Potter
Beatrix Potter was born on 28 July 1866 in London and died on 22 December 1943. She began Peter Rabbit in a picture letter in 1893, had it printed privately in 1901 and saw it published by Frederick Warne in 1902.
Read more on our Beatrix Potter author page.
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See all 20 in our best children’s books of all time.
Frequently asked questions
What age is The Tale of Peter Rabbit for?
It suits ages 2 to 6 and is a good first classic.
When was Peter Rabbit published?
It was privately printed in 1901 and published by Frederick Warne in 1902.
Where can I borrow The Tale of Peter Rabbit?
Most public libraries stock it. See our guide to children’s books and your local library.