Pete the Cat: Decatur’s Coolest Cat
The History of Pete
Long before he strolled across the pages of bestselling picture books, Pete the Cat padded through the streets of Decatur, Georgia. Artist James Dean first painted the laid-back blue feline in the late 1990s after rescuing a real-life stray named Pete. Dean self published a collection of his paintings titled The Misadventures of Pete the Cat in 2006. Four years later, with the help of Eric Litwin, Pete had his own song and his first book: Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes. Eric and James' partnership continued for four more years. James' wife Kimberly has also been a major contributor, shaping the character in the early days and now co authoring many books. What began as a simple painting of a cool cat with an even cooler attitude has grown into a beloved series that celebrates positivity and groove.
Pete Takes Over the World
As the books gained national fame, Pete’s home base remained right here in Decatur. Locals fondly remember Dean painting Pete in his studio and sharing the earliest prints at area art fairs. Over the years, the Deans and Litwin have added dozens of titles—musical adventures, bedtime tales, and upbeat lessons—making Pete an international icon while keeping his heart in our creative community. Decatur loves to remind visitors that the world’s most famous blue cat started his journey on our own city streets.
Taking Pete Home with You
At HomeGrown Decatur, we celebrate this hometown legacy every day. Our shelves are packed with purr-fect Pete treasures for fans of all ages. Kids can piece together the Pete the Cat Floor Puzzle, spin and laugh through the Pete the Cat Pizza Game, or test their luck with the Cupcake, Taco, and Buttons games—each inspired by classic story moments. We’ve even got a Pete the Cat Puppet for interactive story times and a cuddly lineup of Plushies, including the unforgettable Huge Pete Plush that’s as huggable as the real thing.
Adults can get in on the fun too. Show off your hometown pride with our stylish Pete the Cat Adult Socks, while little ones rock matching kids socks. Local art lovers will find vibrant Pete the Cat Prints ready to frame, and our handcrafted Pete Earrings add a subtle wink to any outfit. Whether you’re shopping for a young reader, a lifelong fan, or just someone who loves Decatur art, these items bring a slice of Pete’s playful spirit into everyday life.
Pete's Legacy
Pete’s motto has always been “It’s all good,” and that’s exactly the vibe we embrace here in Decatur. Next time you’re downtown, drop by HomeGrown to see where Pete’s journey continues. Take home a piece of local history, celebrate our community’s creativity, and keep the story of Decatur’s coolest cat alive—one puzzle, plush, or pair of socks at a time.