Sammy: The Classroom Guinea Pig Book

Learn a little about guinea pigs and a lot about school and friendship in this reassuring tale.

Mary Quattlebaum - Children's Literature

Author/illustrator Alix Berenzy introduces young readers to Sammy, a classroom guinea pig with an important message. As the students try to decipher Sammy's chirps and loud "wheep," they learn more about Sammy's unique personality and needs. Without sentimentality, Berenzy reveals the importance of the child/animal bond, and her soft-toned paintings accurately present an engaging little creature and his world. These days, classroom companions may offer youngsters their only chance to connect with an animal. With busy households having few, if any, pets and little contact with the natural world, we can give three cheers for schools that have a place for Sammy and his furry friends. 2005, Henry Holt, Ages 3 to 7.