Valentino Finds a Home by Andy Whiteside

What a cute little book. Valentino is a little guinea pig who has decided to run away from Bolivia where he would be someone’s dinner. Through a mis-adventure, Valentino ends up in a pet store and, eventually, to the home of a little girl. The language is a little more advanced than the target age (3-7) but not so difficult that they couldn’t understand it being read to them or learn the words. Sensitive children might not like the fact that Valentino is being raised for food in the beginning but that’s only mention for the first couple of pages. The illustrations are fun and bright. They will engage even a reluctant reader. The guinea pig is so cute that I found myself going back a page to see him again before moving on. Animal lovers will love the pictures.