The Koala's Butterfly Friend

In a tall gum tree lives Kiki, a small koala with soft grey fur, a creamy white chest, fluffy ears and shiny black eyes. She enjoys the quiet of her tree and the gentle breeze that rocks her to sleep, and each morning she wakes slowly, stretches her paws and smiles a sleepy smile. One sunny spring morning, a bright orange butterfly named Bella flutters near her ear and introduces herself as a traveler in search of the sweetest flowers. The two become friends at once, exploring the forest together, visiting blossoms, sipping dew and sharing stories of faraway places and good hiding spots.

When the wind turns cold, Bella explains that butterflies cannot live through the chilly months and must fly far away to stay warm. She promises to return when spring comes and asks Kiki to wait for her. Rather than simply missing her friend, Kiki digs a little patch of earth near her tree, plants seeds one by one and cares for them all winter, carrying water from the creek in her tiny green watering can even when frost is cold on her nose. This gentle tale by Jane MEADOW follows Kiki through the quiet months and the small daily acts of hope that keep her warm, and it can be read on Kids Tale Book.