The Tiger Who Came to Tea
A surprise visitor knocks at the door at teatime and eats everything in the house.
The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a picture book by Judith Kerr, first published in 1968. It is number 18 in our list of the best children’s books of all time. A surprise visitor knocks at the door at teatime and eats everything in the house.
What is The Tiger Who Came to Tea about?
A girl called Sophie and her mother are about to have tea when there is a ring at the door. Their visitor is a large, polite tiger, who is hungry. He eats all the food and drinks everything in the house.
It was published in 1968. Judith Kerr both wrote and illustrated it.
Book details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Author | Judith Kerr |
| Illustrator | Judith Kerr |
| First published | 1968 |
| Type | Picture book |
| Age guide | 2 to 5 |
Why children enjoy The Tiger Who Came to Tea
- A funny, surprising story told with simple words.
- Everyday settings that young children recognise.
- A story about being kind to an unexpected guest.
Reading and talking tips
- Ask: what would you do if someone knocked at your door?
- Name the food the visitor eats.
- Have a toy tea party.
About Judith Kerr
Judith Kerr was born on 14 June 1923 in Berlin and died on 22 May 2019 in London. As a child she fled Nazi Germany with her family and later lived in Britain.
Read more on our Judith Kerr author page.
If your child likes this, try…
See all 20 in our best children’s books of all time.
Frequently asked questions
What age is The Tiger Who Came to Tea for?
It suits ages 2 to 5.
Who wrote it?
Judith Kerr wrote and illustrated it. She was born in Berlin and later lived in Britain.
Where can I borrow The Tiger Who Came to Tea?
Most public libraries stock it. See our guide to children’s books and your local library.