The Boy and the Alpaca Farm

Oliver has looked forward to visiting the alpaca farm all week, and he arrives in his red rubber boots and mustard-yellow rain jacket ready to join the day's work. Head caretaker Maria and her helper Sam welcome him right away, and the herd stands together in the field like fluffy clouds. One gentle alpaca named Pepper, wearing a red halter with a small brass tag, soon takes an interest in the young visitor. Oliver's first task is counting the herd with a clipboard and pencil, and he discovers that the animals watch him with calm curiosity and that moving slowly keeps them calm too.

As Oliver helps spread fresh straw, fill water buckets and set out hay, Maria and Sam explain how alpacas communicate through soft humming and the position of their ears. This tale by Jane MEADOW is written for young children and the adults who read with them, and it can be read on Kids Tale Book. Through Oliver's day of chores, the story shows that caring for animals begins with paying attention to their sounds, their behavior and their need for company and space.