Read Cat Who Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on May 13, 2026

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The Cat Who series, a beloved collection of mystery novels by Lilian Jackson Braun, offers readers a cozy blend of suspense, quirky characters, and delightful feline companionship. The series follows the adventures of Jim Qwilleran, a former journalist, and his two intelligent Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum. Set in the charming fictional town of Pickax, these books have captivated audiences for decades, combining traditional whodunit mysteries with a lighthearted, warm-hearted narrative. The allure of the Cat Who books lies in their ability to transport readers into a world of small-town intrigue and feline mischief, all while solving puzzles with endearing charm.

List Of Cat Who Books In Order

More On Cat Who Books In Chronological Order

1. The Cat Who Could Read Backwards (1966)

This is the very first book in the series, and it introduces us to Jim Qwilleran, a newspaper reporter with a knack for getting involved in mysteries, and his two Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum. The story is set in a quirky little town full of eccentric characters, and Koko’s unusual intelligence starts hinting at just how much trouble-and how many clues-these cats are going to help solve. You’ll find yourself smiling at Qwilleran’s bemused interactions with Koko while the mystery unfolds in a charming, almost cozy way.

2. The Cat Who Ate Danish Modern (1967)

Here, Qwilleran stumbles into another intriguing puzzle when a wealthy recluse dies, and of course, Koko has opinions about everything. The title alone gives you a hint of the playful tone-expect furniture, murder, and cats meddling in ways only Siamese cats can. It’s delightful how Koko’s quirks become essential to piecing together the mystery, and Braun’s descriptions of the town and its peculiar residents really pull you into the story like a comfy armchair.

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

This one ramps up the intrigue while keeping the whimsical charm intact. Qwilleran is nosing around a theater full of secrets, and Koko’s uncanny observations help point out the inconsistencies nobody else notices. The interplay between the human characters’ petty squabbles and Koko’s cat-like wisdom is endlessly entertaining. You’ll find yourself laughing, scratching your head, and appreciating how Braun blends light humor with classic whodunit tension.

4. The Cat Who Saw Red (1986)

After an 18-year break in the series, Braun picked up the story again with this gem. Qwilleran has now retired to a small town called Pickax, and he’s trying to enjoy a quieter life-but mysteries have a funny way of finding him. Koko, as always, is a brilliant, mischievous detective in fur, noticing details that humans completely miss. Braun’s writing here is rich with small-town color, quirky characters, and subtle humor, making the book feel like visiting an old friend who also happens to be a cat whisperer.

5. The Cat Who Played Brahms (1987)

This is the start of Braun’s cozy murder-mystery rhythm in Pickax, with Qwilleran settling into his new life while somehow getting wrapped up in yet another mystery. Koko’s musical inclinations are a hilarious subplot, and Braun’s descriptions of Qwilleran’s home, garden, and cat antics give the book a very homey, inviting feel. You really start to sense that these cats aren’t just pets-they’re tiny, furry masterminds who see the world differently than anyone else.

6. The Cat Who Played Post Office (1987)

Qwilleran’s life continues to be anything but ordinary despite his hopes for a quiet retirement. This time, the mystery revolves around an eccentric woman and a post office full of secrets. Koko’s behavior is both hilarious and insightful, giving Qwilleran little nudges toward solving the puzzle. Braun’s writing is relaxed, full of little witty observations about humans, small towns, and, of course, cats, making it a true page-turner for anyone who loves a cozy, clever mystery.

7. The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare (1988)

In this installment, Qwilleran is pulled into yet another murder mystery, this time with an intriguing literary twist. The townspeople of Pickax are as colorful as ever, and Koko’s curiosity-sometimes seemingly reckless-is front and center. Braun sprinkles in witty, often sly commentary on human nature while letting the cats’ intelligence shine. By now, you’re completely invested in this trio: Qwilleran, Koko, and Yum Yum, and their uncanny ability to sniff out trouble and clues wherever they go.

8. The Cat Who Sniffed Glue (1988)

Here, Qwilleran is again caught up in the mysteries of Pickax, with Koko’s nose leading the way-literally. The plot may revolve around unusual criminal antics, but Braun keeps the tone light and engaging. Her depiction of the town, its residents, and the ongoing antics of Koko and Yum Yum makes it impossible not to get swept into this charming universe. It’s like curling up with a warm cup of tea and a clever puzzle, with a cat walking across the page from time to time.

9. The Cat Who Went Underground (1989)

This story has a slightly darker undertone but still keeps the cozy charm intact. Qwilleran’s journalistic instincts kick in as he investigates a series of suspicious events, while Koko seems to understand the truth before anyone else does. Braun’s storytelling style is conversational and engaging, often letting Koko’s cleverness steal the show in subtle ways. By now, the reader feels like part of Qwilleran’s inner circle, complete with feline advisors.

10. The Cat Who Talked to Ghosts (1990)

This one blends mystery with a hint of the supernatural, or at least it feels that way because of the eerie events in Pickax. Qwilleran is intrigued, the townspeople are quirky as ever, and Koko’s antics are as brilliant as they are funny. Braun masterfully keeps the story lighthearted while weaving a compelling mystery. The cats’ interactions with the humans, the environment, and each other are endlessly entertaining, making it a perfect blend of suspense and warmth.

Background On The Cat Who Books

The Cat Who series debuted in 1966 with the publication of The Cat Who Could Read Backwards. Lilian Jackson Braun created a unique blend of literary genres, intertwining cozy mystery with an underlying theme of companionship through the two Siamese cats. The novels are famous for their captivating portrayal of Jim Qwilleran, a well-meaning, curious man who, despite his ordinary nature, finds himself embroiled in various mysteries, often with the unspoken assistance of his cats.

Koko, the Siamese cat, is particularly gifted, having a near-human intelligence. He plays a pivotal role in unraveling the mysteries that Jim encounters, often offering subtle clues that help Qwilleran solve crimes. Yum Yum, the more playful of the two, provides a lighter and more humorous balance to the dynamic. The cats’ interactions with Jim are often amusing, giving the series an added layer of charm, as readers come to see them not just as pets, but as integral parts of the investigation team.

Over time, the series grew to include 29 novels, with Braun’s last book, The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers, being published in 2007. Although Braun passed away in 2011, the Cat Who books remain a fixture in the cozy mystery genre, beloved by fans for their endearing characters and warm, often whimsical storytelling.

Reading Order Explained

For anyone considering diving into the Cat Who series, understanding the reading order is essential to fully appreciating the character development and the ongoing mysteries that unfold across the books. While each novel can technically be read as a standalone mystery, the characters and relationships evolve, making it an enriching experience to follow the books in order.

Here’s the recommended reading order for the Cat Who series:

1. The Cat Who Could Read Backwards (1966)
2. The Cat Who Ate Danish Modern (1967)
3. The Cat Who Turned On and Off (1968)
4. The Cat Who Saw Red (1986)
5. The Cat Who Played Brahms (1987)
6. The Cat Who Played Post Office (1987)
7. The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare (1988)
8. The Cat Who Sniffed Glue (1989)
9. The Cat Who Went Underground (1990)
10. The Cat Who Talked to Ghosts (1991)
11. The Cat Who Lived High (1992)
12. The Cat Who Knew a Cardinal (1994)
13. The Cat Who Wasn’t There (1995)
14. The Cat Who Smelled a Rat (1996)
15. The Cat Who Went Into the Closet (1997)
16. The Cat Who Brought Down the House (2001)
17. The Cat Who Talked Turkey (2003)
18. The Cat Who Went Up the Creek (2004)
19. The Cat Who Tailed a Thief (2005)
20. The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell (2006)
21. The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers (2007)

The first few books establish Jim and his growing connection with Koko and Yum Yum, while later novels explore deeper character arcs, especially Jim’s relationships with other residents of Pickax and his personal growth.

While each book has its own mystery, Braun consistently weaves an overarching narrative of community, personal development, and Qwilleran’s interactions with his pets. The series also touches on themes of small-town life and the subtle drama that unfolds within close-knit communities.

What I Like About The Series?

What makes the Cat Who books stand out is Braun’s ability to balance the serious with the whimsical. The mysteries themselves are well-plotted, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged. But it’s the characters-especially Koko and Yum Yum-that elevate the stories beyond typical mysteries.

Qwilleran, the protagonist, is relatable and likable-a man with a good heart who stumbles into danger more often than he would like. His interactions with the cats are often humorous, especially when Koko does something mischievous or displays his inexplicable intuition. The cats are not merely pets; they serve as co-investigators, adding an almost magical realism element to the stories. They can sense things others cannot, and their actions often provide the key to solving the mystery, making them as important as Qwilleran in each book.

Moreover, the setting of Pickax itself is so vividly described that it feels like another character in the series. Braun captures the essence of small-town life with its quirky inhabitants, local businesses, and cozy charm. There’s a sense of community that feels inviting, even when the characters are dealing with murder or mayhem.

I also appreciate the pacing of the books. The mysteries unfold at a comfortable pace, with Braun’s writing style evoking a sense of calm rather than urgency. This is ideal for readers who enjoy a slower, more relaxed narrative that allows them to savor the unfolding of the plot without feeling rushed. The overall tone of the books is gentle, with a good dose of humor and light-hearted moments, making it a delightful escape from the darker, more intense thrillers in the mystery genre.

Should You Read The Cat Who Books In Order?

Though each novel in the Cat Who series can stand alone as an independent mystery, there is an undeniable benefit to reading them in order. As with many long-running series, the characters, especially Jim, Koko, and Yum Yum, evolve over time. The relationships between them become more nuanced, and Jim’s character development is spread across multiple books.

By starting at the beginning, readers are introduced to the foundations of Pickax, Qwilleran’s backstory, and his growing bond with Koko. It’s also fun to watch the minor characters gradually gain more depth as the series progresses. This gradual buildup makes the later books more rewarding, as you’ll find yourself more invested in the characters’ lives and the ongoing mysteries they face.

If you’re the kind of reader who enjoys seeing characters grow and evolve, reading the series in order is highly recommended. The first few books, especially, offer a strong setup for the entire series, establishing the dynamics between Qwilleran and the cats, as well as the overarching mystery that will unfold throughout the series.

That said, if you’re in the mood for a light, fun mystery and don’t mind jumping into the middle of the action, you could also dive into any of the later books. Since the mysteries are self-contained, you won’t necessarily be lost if you pick up one of the later novels, but you might miss some of the character depth and previous storylines that add richness to the experience.