Pip the squirrel was a tiny creature with a very big appetite. He loved nuts, of course, but most of all, he adored fruit! One night, as the stars twinkled above his cozy tree hollow, Pip decided to visit Farmer McGregor's orchard for a midnight snack.
The orchard was magical at night. The apples glowed with a soft, red light; the pears shone like tiny moons; and the blueberries shimmered like tiny sapphires. Pip scampered through the rows, his little nose twitching with delight.
He found a juicy, ripe strawberry, bigger than any he'd ever seen! As he nibbled, he heard a tiny whimper. Hidden under a giant pumpkin, was a little field mouse named Millie. She looked sad and very small.
“What’s wrong?” Pip asked kindly, his eyes wide with concern.
“I’m lost,” Millie squeaked, her voice barely a whisper. “I was chasing a juicy blackberry and now I can't find my way back to my burrow.”
Pip, despite his own hunger, knew he had to help. He offered Millie half of his enormous strawberry. “Eat this,” he said, “it will give you strength.”
Millie munched happily on the sweet treat. Feeling better, she told Pip about her burrow, which was near a big oak tree at the edge of the orchard. Pip, with his excellent sense of direction, happily guided Millie.
Along the way, they encountered other small creatures who were also a little lost or in need of help. A sleepy owl needed directions back to his nest, and a baby bunny had tangled itself in some vines. Pip, with Millie by his side, helped them all.
Using his knowledge of the orchard and his kindness, Pip solved each little problem. He learned that helping others not only made them feel better but also made him feel happy and fulfilled. By the time they reached Millie's burrow, the sun was beginning to peek over the horizon.
Millie thanked Pip profusely. “You’re the best friend a little mouse could ask for,” she squeaked, giving Pip a grateful hug.
Pip, feeling warm and fuzzy inside, scampered back to his tree hollow. He realized that while a delicious strawberry was a wonderful treat, helping his friends was even more rewarding. He snuggled into his bed, his tummy full of good food and a happy heart, ready for a sweet and sound sleep. He dreamt of glowing fruit and all the friends he had helped.