Read Lilian Jackson Braun Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

Lilian Jackson Braun’s The Cat Who series is a beloved collection of mystery novels that has captured the hearts of readers for decades. Combining elements of cozy mysteries, charming characters, and clever plots, these books revolve around a quirky investigative duo-an inquisitive reporter and his two intelligent Siamese cats. As the protagonist, Jim Qwilleran, teams up with his feline companions, Koko and Yum Yum, each book weaves a tale of intrigue, local gossip, and charming small-town dynamics. But as with any long-running book series, the question often arises: Is it necessary to read the Cat Who books in a specific order? And what makes these books so captivating in the first place?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the background of Lilian Jackson Braun’s works, the recommended reading order, the key elements that make the series stand out, and answer the burning question of whether or not you should read them in sequence.

List Of Lilian Jackson Braun Books In Order

The Cat Who Could Read Backwards (1966)	Details
The Cat Who Ate Danish Modern (1967)	Details
The Cat Who Turned On and Off (1968)	Details
The Cat Who Saw Red (1986)	Details
The Cat Who Played Brahms (1987)	Details
The Cat Who Played Post Office (1987)	Details
The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare (1988)	Details
The Cat Who Sniffed Glue (1988)	Details
The Cat Who Went Underground (1989)	Details
The Cat Who Talked to Ghosts (1990)	Details
The Cat Who Lived High (1990)	Details
The Cat Who Knew a Cardinal (1991)	Details
The Cat Who Moved a Mountain (1992)	Details
The Cat Who Wasn’t There (1993)	Details
The Cat Who Went into the Closet (1994)	Details
The Cat Who Came to Breakfast (1994)	Details
The Cat Who Blew the Whistle (1995)	Details
The Cat Who Said Cheese (1996)	Details
The Cat Who Tailed a Thief (1997)	Details
The Cat Who Sang for the Birds (1998)	Details
The Cat Who Saw Stars (1999)	Details
The Cat Who Robbed a Bank (2000)	Details
The Cat Who Smelled a Rat (2001)	Details
The Cat Who Went Up the Creek (2002)	Details
The Cat Who Brought Down the House (2003)	Details
The Cat Who Talked Turkey (2004)	Details
The Cat Who Went Bananas (2005)	Details
The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell (2006)	Details
The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers (2007)	Details

More On Lilian Jackson Braun Books In Chronological Order

1. The Cat Who Could Read Backwards (1966)

This is the very first book in the series, and it introduces the charming crime reporter Jim Qwilleran and his mischievous Siamese cat, Koko. Right from the start, you can feel the quirky, cozy vibe of the series. In this one, Qwilleran finds himself involved in a murder mystery at an art gallery, and Koko’s odd behaviors and uncanny intelligence start hinting that this cat is not just a cute sidekick, but a key to solving the crime. It’s like being invited into a tiny, eccentric world where cats and humans are partners in crime-solving.

2. The Cat Who Ate Danish Modern (1967)

Here, Qwilleran’s feline companion continues to steal the show as he gets wrapped up in a murder mystery in a small town full of colorful characters. The title alone gives you a hint of the fun-there’s a certain elegance to the quirky chaos that Braun crafts. Koko is on top form, showing off his quirky intelligence while Jim fumbles through interviews, newspaper politics, and a puzzling case involving a missing Danish chair. The book is cozy, clever, and filled with that ’I want to curl up with a cup of tea and read’ feeling.

3. The Cat Who Turned On and Off (1968)

This installment takes Qwilleran to a college town where he’s investigating art thefts and murder, and of course, Koko is there, providing the kind of feline insight only a Siamese cat could offer. It’s full of those little details that make Braun’s books feel warm and lived-in-the smells, the townspeople, and the slightly mysterious atmosphere that makes you feel like the town itself is a character. You start seeing why fans of the series are obsessed with both the plots and the quiet humor.

4. The Cat Who Saw Red (1986)

After an 18-year gap in the series, Braun returned with this gem, bringing Qwilleran and Koko into the world of art galleries, murder, and intrigue again. It’s like meeting old friends after a long time. The story revolves around a series of murders in a small town art community, and Koko’s peculiar behaviors once again hint at solutions to the puzzles. Braun’s writing has become even more polished, and the cozy-cat-mystery vibe is in full swing, making it impossible not to fall back into this quirky, cat-infested world.

5. The Cat Who Played Brahms (1987)

In this one, Qwilleran is living a more settled life, but naturally, trouble comes knocking. A murder occurs in the midst of a music festival, and Koko is right there, observing everyone with those sly eyes, nudging Jim toward the clues he might have missed. Braun’s storytelling is warm, with her trademark blend of cozy humor and suspense, and you can almost hear the music echoing through the small-town streets as you read along.

6. The Cat Who Played Post Office (1987)

Koko and Qwilleran get embroiled in a mystery involving a local post office and some shady dealings. Braun’s world-building shines here, as the small town feels real and alive, packed with eccentric characters who could be your neighbors, friends, or a little bit of both. Koko’s antics and the cat’s uncanny knack for uncovering clues are as charming as ever, making this a delightful cozy mystery with just the right amount of suspense.

7. The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare (1988)

This book leans into literary flair, as the murder mystery involves theater and literature, naturally giving Koko plenty of opportunity to be clever in his own inscrutable way. Qwilleran is, as usual, bumbling but lovable, relying on his Siamese cat’s unusual instincts to guide him. Braun’s descriptive style makes you feel like you’re wandering the theater halls yourself, with a cat that might be judging your performance-or maybe just looking for the right clue.

8. The Cat Who Sniffed Glue (1988)

Braun mixes humor with mystery in this story where Qwilleran investigates crimes in a world of small-town politics, eccentric personalities, and, of course, Koko. The cat’s quirky intelligence continues to provide the edge needed to solve the puzzle. What’s really delightful here is Braun’s gift for making ordinary settings feel magical and infused with subtle suspense, all while keeping the cats at the center of the charm.

9. The Cat Who Went Underground (1989)

This time, Qwilleran and Koko get involved in a mystery tied to local eccentricities and hidden secrets in their community. Braun’s narrative is cozy and immersive, and she has a knack for balancing suspense with whimsical humor. Koko’s mysterious ways and tiny, telling gestures drive much of the plot, and it’s impossible not to admire the clever interplay between the cat’s instincts and Qwilleran’s human foibles.

10. The Cat Who Talked to Ghosts (1990)

Braun introduces a slightly spooky vibe here, with Qwilleran drawn into a mystery involving alleged hauntings and small-town secrets. As always, Koko’s intelligence and peculiar habits are the keys to solving the puzzle, while Braun peppers the narrative with charming observations and cozy, detailed settings. It’s a story that’s suspenseful without being scary, perfect for fans of cozy mysteries and cat antics.

11. The Cat Who Lived High (1990)

Qwilleran and Koko are swept into the upper-class world of society events, but Braun ensures that humor and feline cleverness keep the story grounded. Koko’s antics are subtle but crucial, leading Qwilleran toward the truth with his usual mix of intelligence and mischief. The narrative is delightfully descriptive, making you feel the textures, sounds, and personalities of the social scene as if you’re right there.

12. The Cat Who Knew a Cardinal (1991)

Here, the series touches on seasonal charm, with birds and nature playing a significant role in the mystery. Qwilleran navigates the small-town rhythms and social intrigue while Koko, naturally, is several steps ahead in noticing clues others miss. Braun’s conversational writing style makes the reader feel like they’re sharing tea and gossip with Qwilleran, while secretly watching Koko plot the next clever move.

13. The Cat Who Moved a Mountain (1992)

This one involves real estate and a small-town feud, with Qwilleran investigating odd goings-on while Koko provides those moments of insight that are both amusing and brilliant. Braun’s writing is gentle, witty, and immersive, and she has a unique way of making even mundane situations feel infused with mystery and charm. The interplay between Qwilleran’s human logic and Koko’s feline intuition is pure gold.

14. The Cat Who Wasn’t There (1993)

A missing-person mystery draws Qwilleran and Koko into a story with a slightly darker edge, though still within Braun’s cozy, whimsical style. Koko’s subtle behaviors hint at hidden truths, and Qwilleran’s observations round out the puzzle. Braun’s narrative voice continues to be warm and conversational, and she’s mastered the art of letting a cat guide a human detective without it feeling forced or silly.

15. The Cat Who Went into the Closet (1994)

Koko and Qwilleran get tangled in another charming mystery filled with quirky townsfolk, odd situations, and of course, feline brilliance. Braun is at her best weaving the small details into the larger mystery, making you feel like a sleuth yourself while also chuckling at Koko’s antics. It’s cozy, witty, and perfectly paced for fans of the series.

16. The Cat Who Came to Breakfast (1994)

This one has a delightfully domestic vibe, as Qwilleran is drawn into a culinary and social mystery, and Koko’s unusual behavior provides essential clues. Braun’s warm, narrative style and detailed depictions of small-town life make this an immersive and enjoyable read. There’s a gentle rhythm to the storytelling that feels comforting, like sharing a meal with old friends while sneaking in a little intrigue.

17. The Cat Who Blew the Whistle (1995)

Qwilleran investigates corruption in a local school board setting, and Koko’s quirks once again play a pivotal role in uncovering the truth. Braun excels at combining humor, suspense, and coziness here. The small-town dynamics are vivid, the characters are memorable, and the cat’s subtle intelligence continues to steal every scene he’s in.

18. The Cat Who Said Cheese (1996)

A culinary-themed mystery, naturally, with Qwilleran and Koko navigating a series of puzzling events. Braun’s writing is playful and engaging, filled with small observations about people, cats, and food that feel genuine and humorous. Koko’s cleverness is front and center, and the cozy mystery elements are as charming as ever.

19. The Cat Who Tailed a Thief (1997)

A theft mystery brings Qwilleran into the world of small-town intrigue, with Koko leading the way in subtle, hilarious ways. Braun’s descriptive style immerses you in the town’s atmosphere, and the pacing keeps the story engaging. The interplay between human bumbling and feline genius continues to be the series’ highlight.

20. The Cat Who Sang for the Birds (1998)

Birdwatching, small-town drama, and murder mysteries collide in this installment. Qwilleran and Koko’s partnership is as charming as ever, and Braun’s writing evokes a vivid sense of place, atmosphere, and humor. The cats’ insights are both clever and endearing, making it a delight to see them unravel the mystery in subtle, surprising ways.

21. The Cat Who Saw Stars (1999)

This book combines local theater, small-town rivalries, and mystery, with Koko subtly leading Qwilleran to the truth. Braun’s narrative style remains cozy, humorous, and immersive, with tiny details that make the town come alive. Koko’s uncanny understanding of human foibles adds both comedy and cleverness to the unfolding plot.

22. The Cat Who Robbed a Bank (2000)

Bank heists, quirky townsfolk, and Koko’s investigative talents make this one particularly fun. Braun balances humor and suspense perfectly, letting readers enjoy the ride while subtly planting clues that only a cat could notice. It’s classic cozy mystery material with a feline twist that makes the series so enduring.

23. The Cat Who Smelled a Rat (2001)

A mystery involving betrayal and deception unfolds here, with Qwilleran and Koko navigating small-town intrigue. Braun’s writing is conversational and warm, full of humor and observation, and Koko’s mysterious, uncanny ways remain central to solving the puzzle. The storytelling is gentle but compelling, drawing readers into a cozy, suspenseful world.

24. The Cat Who Went Up the Creek (2002)

This time, the mystery revolves around local business rivalries and community secrets. Qwilleran’s investigations are complemented perfectly by Koko’s subtle, insightful behaviors. Braun’s small-town setting feels lived-in, and her whimsical, talkative narrative voice makes the story both cozy and engaging. You can almost hear Koko thinking his clever little cat thoughts.

25. The Cat Who Brought Down the House (2003)

Qwilleran is drawn into theater and high-society chaos, with Koko subtly guiding him through the mystery. Braun’s signature humor, attention to detail, and cozy suspense are all present, and Koko’s antics continue to steal the spotlight. The story is both lighthearted and intriguing, offering that perfect balance the series is known for.

26. The Cat Who Talked Turkey (2004)

Braun brings the series into a charming, seasonal setting with Thanksgiving vibes, small-town quirks, and, naturally, feline detective work. Koko’s intelligence is key to unraveling the plot, and Braun’s narrative is full of conversational asides, cozy descriptions, and warm humor that make you feel part of the community and the mystery.

27. The Cat Who Went Bananas (2005)

A mystery revolving around eccentric locals, fundraising chaos, and small-town drama. Qwilleran’s journalistic instincts pair perfectly with Koko’s feline cunning. Braun’s style remains cozy and talkative, making the story both amusing and satisfying. Koko’s little gestures and reactions provide moments of pure delight and clever insight.

28. The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell (2006)

A shocking revelation shakes Qwilleran’s community, and Koko is as perceptive as ever, guiding the investigation with his silent wisdom. Braun balances humor, suspense, and the coziness of small-town life, and her narrative voice remains friendly, immersive, and full of subtle jokes. The cat’s intelligence is front and center, making this another standout in the series.

29. The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers (2007)

The final installment features a mystery that touches on Qwilleran’s past, community tensions, and, of course, Koko’s brilliant cat instincts. Braun wraps up her series with warmth, humor, and cozy suspense, giving longtime fans a satisfying conclusion. Koko’s quirks, gestures, and intuition are as entertaining as ever, reminding readers why this series is a classic in the cozy mystery genre.

Background On Lilian Jackson Braun Books

Lilian Jackson Braun, an American author, is best known for her Cat Who mystery series, which began in the late 1960s and continued into the early 2000s. The first novel, The Cat Who Could Read Backwards, was published in 1966, introducing readers to Jim Qwilleran, a quirky, somewhat jaded reporter who is thrust into a world of mysteries and eccentric characters. Alongside him are his two Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum, who become his partners in solving a series of increasingly complex mysteries.

Braun’s writing is often classified as ’cozy mystery’-a subgenre of mystery fiction that emphasizes charm over violence and centers on amateur sleuths solving crimes in small, tight-knit communities. However, unlike traditional cozy mysteries, Braun’s books are known for featuring a unique, animal-centric twist. Koko, the male Siamese cat, is especially gifted with seemingly supernatural abilities-such as solving mysteries or providing cryptic clues-which adds an endearing layer of whimsy to the stories.

What sets the Cat Who series apart from other mystery novels is the subtle but engaging character development. Over the course of 29 books, readers get to watch the characters grow, their relationships evolve, and their personal lives unfold in a satisfying way. The setting is typically in the fictional town of Pickax, where Qwilleran lives in a large, quirky mansion. Here, the series creates a perfect balance of small-town charm, eccentricities, and intriguing mysteries.

Reading Order Explained

The Cat Who series spans nearly three decades, with each novel building upon its predecessors. While the mysteries are generally self-contained, the evolution of the central characters, particularly Jim Qwilleran, Koko, and Yum Yum, makes reading the books in order a rewarding experience. However, if you’re just starting out, you may be wondering: what is the best way to tackle the series?

The Recommended Reading Order

Here is the recommended reading order of the Cat Who series:

1. The Cat Who Could Read Backwards (1966)

   The series begins with Qwilleran’s introduction to the world of mystery-solving, with Koko showing signs of being an intuitive and intelligent cat.

2. The Cat Who Ate Danish Modern (1967)

   This second installment delves into Qwilleran’s expanding role as an investigative reporter. Koko’s talents become more evident as the plot unravels.

3. The Cat Who Turned On and Off (1968)

   The third book in the series sets the stage for deeper involvement with the community, introducing readers to recurring characters and local dynamics.

4. The Cat Who Saw Red (1986)

   After a gap of nearly two decades, Braun returned to the series with this book, marking a new chapter in Qwilleran’s life and investigations.

5. The Cat Who Played Brahms (1987)

   This marks the continuation of Qwilleran’s journey in solving mysteries in his distinctive style, with Koko playing an even more prominent role.

6. The Cat Who Knew a Cardinal (1988)

   This book expands on Qwilleran’s interactions with local organizations and delves deeper into the interwoven lives of the townsfolk.

From here, the series continues with the same level of wit, humor, and mystery, following a relatively linear progression. However, some of the later books are not directly related to one another, allowing readers to pick up any installment without feeling lost in the plot. Still, for the full experience, reading in order ensures that key character arcs and relationships are more satisfying.

What I Like About The Series?

The Cat Who series excels in a number of areas that keep readers coming back for more. Here are some of the elements that I particularly enjoy:

1. Character Development: Jim Qwilleran, as a protagonist, is far from a typical detective. He’s an ordinary man-quirky, a bit absent-minded, but also deeply caring and thoughtful. Over time, you witness his gradual transformation from a somewhat lonely, somewhat skeptical reporter into someone who is deeply connected to his community and beloved by those around him. Koko and Yum Yum also grow in their roles, with Koko’s intelligence becoming more remarkable with each book.
2. The Unique Role of Cats: The real star of the show, though, is Koko. The Siamese cat’s almost psychic ability to aid in solving mysteries is both charming and a little whimsical. The interactions between Qwilleran and Koko offer a heartwarming sense of companionship and wit. Koko isn’t just a pet; he’s an integral part of the investigative process, which provides an interesting twist to the usual detective genre.
3. The Cozy Atmosphere: Braun’s books are perfect for those who love small-town charm. The fictional town of Pickax is filled with colorful and eccentric characters who bring the narrative to life. The setting of Qwilleran’s mansion, his relationships with the townspeople, and the overall ambiance of the series feel warm and inviting.
4. The Puzzles: While the mysteries themselves aren’t usually violent or gritty, they are intricate enough to keep readers engaged. Each book features well-thought-out plots, and the clues often unfold in unexpected ways. Koko’s antics always add an extra layer of intrigue, as his cryptic behaviors frequently lead Qwilleran closer to solving the case.
5. Nostalgic Appeal: For many readers, the series provides a sense of nostalgia. The books are written with an old-fashioned style, reminiscent of classic whodunits, yet they still feel fresh. They offer a delightful escape to a simpler, less chaotic world.

Should You Read Lilian Jackson Braun Books In Order?

While each book in the Cat Who series features a self-contained mystery, reading the books in order allows you to experience the gradual growth of both the characters and the town itself. Many of the relationships and subplots develop over multiple books, making the reading experience more rewarding when followed in sequence.

For example, Jim Qwilleran’s relationships with various townspeople and his evolving role as an amateur detective are best appreciated when you’ve followed his journey from the very first book. Similarly, the way Koko’s abilities become more prominent and intriguing as the series progresses is best understood in the context of the earlier books.

That said, if you don’t mind spoilers or minor character references, starting with any book in the series wouldn’t ruin the experience. But for the fullest and most enriching reading adventure, it’s recommended to read in order.