The Little Tapir's Friend

In the heart of the rainforest, a little tapir named Tapi spends his days wandering muddy trails and sniffing flowers, though he sometimes feels lonely. One morning by the riverbank he meets Capi, a cheerful capybara, and the two quickly become friends, playing hide-and-seek among the ferns and racing along the forest paths. As they spend time together, each learns what the other does well: Capi is quick and clever at finding fruit trees, while Tapi is strong and sturdy when pushing through thick bushes.

This warm tale by Aysel Banu YAVUZAL follows the two friends as heavy rain raises the river and covers the forest floor with water. Setting out for higher ground, they rely on each other's different abilities to find safe paths, test the ground and overcome obstacles along the way. Told in simple language with two animal characters, the story gently shows young readers how friendship works when strengths differ and problems are faced together. It suits children in the early primary years and can be read aloud at bedtime or alone; the tale can be found on Masal İzle.