The Little Zebra's Elephant Friend

On the wide, sunny grasslands, a little zebra with soft cream-white and black stripes stays close to his mother, wishing he felt brave enough to explore. A round grey elephant calf with a small red band around one ankle thumps past and invites him along. The zebra admits he is not very brave, and the calf answers that he gets scared too, so they can be brave together. Holding out his short trunk, the calf leads the way into the tall grass and waving flowers.

Their walk brings small tests, from a shallow stream to whispering grasses and buzzing insects, and the zebra learns to take each one a step at a time with his friend beside him. Written by Jane MEADOW, this gentle picture-book story shows young readers that fear can be shared rather than hidden and that companionship helps courage grow. It suits children beginning to read tales about friendship and feelings, and the tale can be read on Kids Tale Book.