The Sheep Pig Dick King Smith

Babe is a small pig with an unlikely ambition: he wants to do the work of a sheepdog. With guidance, kindness and a very different approach to the sheep, he begins to challenge everyone's expectations. Dick King-Smith's warm animal story gives the outsider a chance to shine, celebrating patience and respectful cooperation rather than assuming that success belongs only to those who look the part.

Age suitability and learning: Primary (6-8), Older children (9-12). The longer narrative suits children ready to sustain attention across a developing story, whether reading independently or sharing it aloud. Following characters and events supports comprehension, vocabulary and reading stamina; discussing motives, settings and choices encourages inference, empathy and imaginative thinking.

Available at QT Toys in Battersea.