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Two Fat Cows
Meet two very greedy cows, Marigold and Petal, and follow them in their madcap plan to eat every blade of grass they can get their hooves on. A new laugh-out-loud rhyming story for young readers.
20 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2016
About the author
Nigel Tetley
8 books25 followersSince qualifying as a Religious Studies teacher in 1989, Nigel Tetley has worked in a variety of schools, spanning middle and secondary age groups in both the State and independent sectors. At the beginning of his teaching career, he also spent a year in Greece teaching English. In 2001, he started writing children's poetry at the suggestion of a colleague. Full details of all of his writing projects can be found on his website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
December 31, 2022
Two Fat Cows had me giggling with each page.
The illustrations complimented the story and were easy to follow the story, even without the words.
The illustrations complimented the story and were easy to follow the story, even without the words.
December 30, 2025
Two Fat Cows by Nigel Tetley is a delightful and humorous children’s book that celebrates individuality, friendship, and self-acceptance through a simple yet engaging story. With its playful tone and charming characters, this book offers young readers an enjoyable reading experience while gently delivering an important message.
The story follows two cows who stand out from the rest—not because they’re different in a bad way, but because they’re perfectly happy being exactly who they are. Nigel Tetley handles the subject matter with warmth and sensitivity, ensuring that the story remains lighthearted and fun while also promoting confidence and kindness. Children will immediately connect with the cows’ carefree attitude and joyful outlook on life.
Tetley’s writing style is easy to follow and perfect for early readers or shared storytime. The rhythm of the language makes it engaging to read aloud, and the humor sprinkled throughout keeps young listeners entertained. The story flows smoothly, making it ideal for bedtime reading or classroom use.
One of the strongest aspects of Two Fat Cows is its underlying message. Without being preachy, the book encourages children to embrace differences—both in themselves and in others. It shows that happiness doesn’t come from fitting in, but from being comfortable in your own skin. This makes the book especially valuable in helping children develop positive self-image and empathy from an early age.
The illustrations (where included) are bright, expressive, and full of personality. The cows’ expressions and body language bring the story to life, adding humor and warmth to every page. Kids will love spotting little visual details that enhance the story’s charm.
What makes this book truly special is how it balances fun and meaning. Children are entertained by the silly moments and lovable characters, while parents and educators will appreciate the positive themes woven throughout the narrative.
Two Fat Cows is a joyful, affirming story that leaves readers smiling and feeling good about themselves. It’s a wonderful addition to any child’s bookshelf and a book that can be read again and again with the same sense of delight.
The story follows two cows who stand out from the rest—not because they’re different in a bad way, but because they’re perfectly happy being exactly who they are. Nigel Tetley handles the subject matter with warmth and sensitivity, ensuring that the story remains lighthearted and fun while also promoting confidence and kindness. Children will immediately connect with the cows’ carefree attitude and joyful outlook on life.
Tetley’s writing style is easy to follow and perfect for early readers or shared storytime. The rhythm of the language makes it engaging to read aloud, and the humor sprinkled throughout keeps young listeners entertained. The story flows smoothly, making it ideal for bedtime reading or classroom use.
One of the strongest aspects of Two Fat Cows is its underlying message. Without being preachy, the book encourages children to embrace differences—both in themselves and in others. It shows that happiness doesn’t come from fitting in, but from being comfortable in your own skin. This makes the book especially valuable in helping children develop positive self-image and empathy from an early age.
The illustrations (where included) are bright, expressive, and full of personality. The cows’ expressions and body language bring the story to life, adding humor and warmth to every page. Kids will love spotting little visual details that enhance the story’s charm.
What makes this book truly special is how it balances fun and meaning. Children are entertained by the silly moments and lovable characters, while parents and educators will appreciate the positive themes woven throughout the narrative.
Two Fat Cows is a joyful, affirming story that leaves readers smiling and feeling good about themselves. It’s a wonderful addition to any child’s bookshelf and a book that can be read again and again with the same sense of delight.
October 28, 2023
The minute I saw the cover of this book I knew it was going to be a fun read, and I was not disappointed!
So how do two fat cows fit through a gate? You will have to read the book to find out!
Using humour and rhyme to tell the story of Marigold and Petal, the two fat cows that rather liked the look of the grass in the next field, Nigel Tetley skilfully takes the reader effortlessly along for the ride.
This story is sure to evoke lots of giggles and interest from its young audience. Along with the beautiful, and also humorous, illustrations by Simon Goodway this book is a wonderful addition to any bookshelf and one that I am sure will become a favourite.
I would recommend this book for 3 - 7 year olds, with a rating of 5/5.
So how do two fat cows fit through a gate? You will have to read the book to find out!
Using humour and rhyme to tell the story of Marigold and Petal, the two fat cows that rather liked the look of the grass in the next field, Nigel Tetley skilfully takes the reader effortlessly along for the ride.
This story is sure to evoke lots of giggles and interest from its young audience. Along with the beautiful, and also humorous, illustrations by Simon Goodway this book is a wonderful addition to any bookshelf and one that I am sure will become a favourite.
I would recommend this book for 3 - 7 year olds, with a rating of 5/5.
September 16, 2023
"TWO FAT COWS" is a hilarious and heartwarming children's book that tells the tale of Marigold and Petal, two delightfully chubby cows on a quest for greener pastures. The book is filled with comical rhymes, humorous blame games, and whimsical illustrations that make it a perfect read-aloud choice for young readers. While it doesn't aim to teach a specific lesson, it's all about having fun, and kids will undoubtedly enjoy this lighthearted story.
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November 1, 2023This is an incredibly charming and delightfully chaotic tale featuring two cows determined to reach the lush green grass on the other side of the fence. The playful pentameter made the reading experience all the more enjoyable, and the cows' comical expressions added to the hilarity.
October 29, 2024
Two Fat Cows is a very interesting tale that enables dialogue with especially young readers on character development such as "not being greedy". I loved the comedy in it and the illustrations are so spot-on.
January 25, 2025
Silly Bed Time Read!!
As long as your kid does not get hungry reading this, the book can be a wonderful quick bedtime story. The cows are silly but what makes this book fun are the rhymes that it almost wants you to sing them out loud!!!
As long as your kid does not get hungry reading this, the book can be a wonderful quick bedtime story. The cows are silly but what makes this book fun are the rhymes that it almost wants you to sing them out loud!!!
January 19, 2026
A cute and speedy rhyming tale with fun illustrations and a delightfully silly premise. The two chunky cows make for lots of laughs, and the rhythmic text flows effortlessly. A playful book that’s just right for a quick read-aloud.
May 24, 2026
Two Fat Cows is a witty and fun story that children will be entertained by. I mean why wouldn’t it be— the characters a literally two fat cows! The cow characters are lovable and relatable as they try to do their best! The illustrations are cute too!
January 30, 2023
What a great book. It had me laughing out loud.
It's udderly adorable, this tale of two fat cow's, with very clever rhyming that isn't easy to master.
I'd definitely recommend.
It's udderly adorable, this tale of two fat cow's, with very clever rhyming that isn't easy to master.
I'd definitely recommend.
February 5, 2023
Very funny and great illustrations! My six year old liked it
February 16, 2023
Adorable story about 2 fat cows and how their hunger gets the best of them. Very funny rhyming story. I'll never look at cows the same way again.
July 12, 2024
The story was a good read for sure. My 3yr son enjoyed the story. thanks for sharing.
May 21, 2026
This was a quick, comical story that made for a fun read. Following the same rhythmic style found in some of the author’s other books, the story flowed well and kept things engaging. The illustrations were cute and added to the overall charm. It’s the kind of book that just makes you smile. A great quick bedtime read for those nights when they keep asking for “just one more” before lights out.
October 5, 2026
Adorable two fat cows, love the name and the pictures of both. Loved how they worked together and got there goal to reach the other side with team work..
October 24, 2026
I enjoyed reading this funny rhyming story about Marigold and Petal. These two greedy cows made me smile with their silly plan to eat every blade of grass they could find. The story is fun to follow, and the rhymes make it enjoyable for young children. I also like how it teaches prepositions in a simple way while keeping the reading playful and entertaining. A lovely book for little readers!
January 25, 2023
My five year old daughter Rory says, "I love it. It's pretty weird because the two fat cows got stuck and then they fell and that must of hurt, and I love you."
I received a copy of the book from the author for free.
I received a copy of the book from the author for free.
January 18, 2023
The title alone makes me laugh!
This book put a smile on my face as I read through the nicely woven rhyme. It's very difficult to write coherent rhyme for children with a meaning. These two cows are so hungry or greedy or something that they fall all over themselves for some green grass, which by the way, makes the best meat ever. Go grass fed! Enjoy this book, it'll definitely make kids laugh!
This book put a smile on my face as I read through the nicely woven rhyme. It's very difficult to write coherent rhyme for children with a meaning. These two cows are so hungry or greedy or something that they fall all over themselves for some green grass, which by the way, makes the best meat ever. Go grass fed! Enjoy this book, it'll definitely make kids laugh!
February 22, 2017
What a delightful book. Written in rhyme this fun story tells the tale of two very overweight cows who are BFFs and whose only goal in life is to eat, eat, eat. "One more blade to go please".
Marigold and Petal have literally eaten their way out of house and home. They look down and only a few pathetic blades of grass remain at their hooves. They think that they just might starve to death. Oh nooooo! Can't let that happen.
They look across the fence and a huge, luscious field of green grass awaits ... as far as their cow-eyes can see. It is a diner's delight, a feast made in heaven. Their tastebuds kick into action and the two devise a plan to escape to other side of the gate where the whole wide world is theirs to eat.
Marigold kick-starts the plan into action by encouraging Petal to kick down the gate. That will be easy-peasy right? Oh oh... it doesn't open. Marigold then has another brilliant idea but will that do the trick? These two rotund little heifers are determined to exit. You will laugh out loud at what happens next... guaranteed.
This book is full of humour and just plain fun all-round. The illustrations are expressive and action-packed. When they are married to the text the result is a brilliant story that will have kids (and adults) chuckling at the antics within the covers.
Friendship comes in many shapes and sizes and these two little dumplings plan to expand their waistlines in life together... one blade at a time. I loved it! Highly recommended.
Marigold and Petal have literally eaten their way out of house and home. They look down and only a few pathetic blades of grass remain at their hooves. They think that they just might starve to death. Oh nooooo! Can't let that happen.
They look across the fence and a huge, luscious field of green grass awaits ... as far as their cow-eyes can see. It is a diner's delight, a feast made in heaven. Their tastebuds kick into action and the two devise a plan to escape to other side of the gate where the whole wide world is theirs to eat.
Marigold kick-starts the plan into action by encouraging Petal to kick down the gate. That will be easy-peasy right? Oh oh... it doesn't open. Marigold then has another brilliant idea but will that do the trick? These two rotund little heifers are determined to exit. You will laugh out loud at what happens next... guaranteed.
This book is full of humour and just plain fun all-round. The illustrations are expressive and action-packed. When they are married to the text the result is a brilliant story that will have kids (and adults) chuckling at the antics within the covers.
Friendship comes in many shapes and sizes and these two little dumplings plan to expand their waistlines in life together... one blade at a time. I loved it! Highly recommended.
April 15, 2021
TWO FAT COWS, written by Nigel Tetley and illustrated by Simon Goodway, is a funny little book about…eh, two fat cows. With only two protagonists in the book, the story is easy to understand and your little one could even memorize some of the rhymes. For sure, it will warm up many children’s hearts and will bring many smiles to the faces of young readers.
The two fat cows are in search of a field with greener grass. The story encompasses their little adventure trying to get out of their yard. At the end of their funny escapade, they are both happy because the world is all theirs to eat.
Not hooked yet? The illustrations are fun and beautiful, and the story is perfect for a read-aloud experience.
No matter how you read it - slowly or quickly - it will help your child's imagination grow. And this is the way - slowly or quickly - listeners become thinkers.
The two fat cows are in search of a field with greener grass. The story encompasses their little adventure trying to get out of their yard. At the end of their funny escapade, they are both happy because the world is all theirs to eat.
Not hooked yet? The illustrations are fun and beautiful, and the story is perfect for a read-aloud experience.
No matter how you read it - slowly or quickly - it will help your child's imagination grow. And this is the way - slowly or quickly - listeners become thinkers.
April 22, 2026
**5 Stars – Silly, Sweet, and Surprisingly Thoughtful**
*Two Fat Cows* is a super cute children’s book with fun, catchy rhymes that make it an enjoyable read-aloud. The playful rhythm keeps kids engaged, and I found myself chuckling several times throughout the story.
The illustrations are adorable, consistent, and very kid-friendly—bright, expressive, and a perfect match for the tone of the book. The title definitely caught my attention, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well the author handled the word “fat.” Rather than using it negatively, it simply felt descriptive and part of the cows’ charm.
At times, some of the rhymes felt a little forced, like the sentences were built around making a word rhyme rather than flowing naturally. But honestly, that didn’t take away much from the overall fun of the book.
This was a sweet, lighthearted read that made me smile, and I think many kids (and parents) will enjoy it.
*Two Fat Cows* is a super cute children’s book with fun, catchy rhymes that make it an enjoyable read-aloud. The playful rhythm keeps kids engaged, and I found myself chuckling several times throughout the story.
The illustrations are adorable, consistent, and very kid-friendly—bright, expressive, and a perfect match for the tone of the book. The title definitely caught my attention, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well the author handled the word “fat.” Rather than using it negatively, it simply felt descriptive and part of the cows’ charm.
At times, some of the rhymes felt a little forced, like the sentences were built around making a word rhyme rather than flowing naturally. But honestly, that didn’t take away much from the overall fun of the book.
This was a sweet, lighthearted read that made me smile, and I think many kids (and parents) will enjoy it.
July 30, 2024
I received a copy of the book from the author for free for a review.
In Nigel Tetley's fanciful story "Two Fat Cows," he describes two cows, Marigold and Petal, who find themselves in a field with no grass after eating all of it. With voracious stomachs, they look across the locked gate at another, beautiful green field. They tried to go over and crawl under, and got themselves into a very amusing situation—stuck behind the gate. Finally, the gate falls, and there they are—in between the two fields. Triumphant, they now realize that persistence, has paid off, and they celebrate their new freedom to the abundant grass.
The moral of the story is that through determination and perseverance, one can make a difference. That is, even in the most hopeless situation, if one persists in trying and is creative in finding a way out, then s/he will succeed.
In Nigel Tetley's fanciful story "Two Fat Cows," he describes two cows, Marigold and Petal, who find themselves in a field with no grass after eating all of it. With voracious stomachs, they look across the locked gate at another, beautiful green field. They tried to go over and crawl under, and got themselves into a very amusing situation—stuck behind the gate. Finally, the gate falls, and there they are—in between the two fields. Triumphant, they now realize that persistence, has paid off, and they celebrate their new freedom to the abundant grass.
The moral of the story is that through determination and perseverance, one can make a difference. That is, even in the most hopeless situation, if one persists in trying and is creative in finding a way out, then s/he will succeed.
January 28, 2026
Two Fat Cows is a fun, energetic picture book that works well as a read-aloud for young children. The rhyming text flows smoothly and the story is easy to follow, with clear momentum from start to finish.
The illustrations really carry the humour, especially during the gate scenes, and younger readers will enjoy the exaggerated expressions and physical comedy. The overall tone is light-hearted and playful, with a strong sense of teamwork and persistence driving the story forward.
While some adults may pause at the use of the word “fat,” it’s clearly used in a humorous, descriptive way within the story. Overall, this is a lively, engaging book that children are likely to enjoy, particularly when shared aloud.
The illustrations really carry the humour, especially during the gate scenes, and younger readers will enjoy the exaggerated expressions and physical comedy. The overall tone is light-hearted and playful, with a strong sense of teamwork and persistence driving the story forward.
While some adults may pause at the use of the word “fat,” it’s clearly used in a humorous, descriptive way within the story. Overall, this is a lively, engaging book that children are likely to enjoy, particularly when shared aloud.
April 19, 2026
Two Fat Cows is a playful and amusing story that centers on a single simple adventure shared by 2 like-minded friends with 1 common goal. Rather than focusing on heavy life lessons, the book leans into pure fun and the joyful spirit of its two lovable characters. Their determined (and slightly mischievous!) quest to break through a gate and enjoy more grass makes for a lighthearted, feel-good read. The illustrations are a pleasure with a gleeful tone that matches the story, and the rhyme scheme blended with it's melodic poetic nature only adds to the fun vibes. It’s the kind of cheerful story kids will want to pick up again and again for its upbeat, giggle-worthy charm.
April 20, 2025
I read the story to my son, who giggled out loud and found the two fat cows' predicament rather funny. The two fat cows, determined to get to greener pastures, didn't really think through their solution, and end up in a tight spot. I do think there is an important lesson in this story, which is to think things through properly before you do something, unless you want to end up like Marigold and Petal. It's also a great lesson, when the problem somehow resolves itself in the end. In many ways, life is sometimes like that - with time the problem resolves itself. I enjoyed this story.
June 10, 2026
An Utterly Hilarious, "Moo-ving" Little Tale!
If you are looking for a laugh-out-loud storytime read, this is it! Marigold and Pedal are two wonderfully silly, food-obsessed cows who decide the grass is definitely greener on the other side of the fence. Watching their comical, clumsy mission to escape, especially the part where a chubby cow gets wedged under the fence, is absolute gold. With playful rhymes and adorable illustrations, this short and sweet book is guaranteed to give toddlers and preschoolers a major case of the giggles!
If you are looking for a laugh-out-loud storytime read, this is it! Marigold and Pedal are two wonderfully silly, food-obsessed cows who decide the grass is definitely greener on the other side of the fence. Watching their comical, clumsy mission to escape, especially the part where a chubby cow gets wedged under the fence, is absolute gold. With playful rhymes and adorable illustrations, this short and sweet book is guaranteed to give toddlers and preschoolers a major case of the giggles!
July 19, 2023
Cute and funny and it's mostly written for fun without trying to teach a lesson, although you can learn something from it too, but I'm not going to say it out loud.
The funniest page is on page 12 when they blame each other for being stuck.
And my husband recently said there aren't many picture books about cows and I agreed and today I saw this book. I love books that are made just for fun, that's the kind of books that kids tend to like the most too.
The funniest page is on page 12 when they blame each other for being stuck.
And my husband recently said there aren't many picture books about cows and I agreed and today I saw this book. I love books that are made just for fun, that's the kind of books that kids tend to like the most too.
August 6, 2025
Two Fat Cows is a wonderfully silly and clever rhyming tale that will have both kids and adults laughing out loud. With its playful language, rhythmic verses, and hilariously relatable characters, Marigold and Petal’s misadventure is pure joy from start to finish. Simon Goodway’s illustrations add even more charm to this delightful romp. A perfect read-aloud that’s destined to become a family favorite!
May 27, 2023
A hilariously illustrated tale told with rhythm & rhyme. Two cows are absolutely desperate for that sweet greener grass on the other side of the fence. Do they get there? You'll just have to find out. I'm pleased to have received this book as a gift from the author and will surely share it with the little ones in my life.
September 1, 2023
This is the third book of this author I get the chance to read. It's a pretty fun humor put in rhyme.
I would say not only children but even adults would find it interesting.
The illustrations are lovely and they capture perfectly the humoristic side of the story. I like very much the the style of the illustrations in all author's books and this one did not disappoint.
I would say not only children but even adults would find it interesting.
The illustrations are lovely and they capture perfectly the humoristic side of the story. I like very much the the style of the illustrations in all author's books and this one did not disappoint.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews