The Boy and the Guinea Pigs

Ben has always wanted a pet, so one sunny Saturday he and his mom visit the animal shelter. There he meets Pip, a bold ginger-orange guinea pig with a white patch over one eye, and Squeak, a shy cream and brown guinea pig who stays close behind her friend. The shelter lady explains that guinea pigs are social pets who need company, just like people do, and Ben happily takes both of them home. He sets up a spacious cage with a wooden house, a tunnel and a soft blanket, and promises to give them the best home ever.

As the days pass, Ben pays close attention to his new friends. He notices how Pip squeaks and explores while Squeak answers with soft rumbles and chirps, and he learns that guinea pigs use sounds to share how they feel. He reads a library book and asks the vet about healthy food, then makes a chart so Pip and Squeak get fresh hay and crunchy vegetables every morning. He builds a playpen with tunnels and boxes, and when Squeak seems quieter than usual, he realises she simply needs a private place to rest and adds a cozy hiding spot for her. This gentle story by Jane MEADOW follows a caring boy learning what it really means to look after animals. Young readers who love animals will see through Ben's patient observation how attention and empathy help pets feel safe and happy. The tale can be read on Kids Tale Book.