Sophie stopped in her tracks. She stared at the little group of animals, and they in turn stared back.

There was a kangaroo, a koala, a cassowary, and a bush turkey. It was, Sophie realised, the group of animals that her mother had seen that morning at the window. Sophie looked up as a flutter of feathers wafted to the ground. High in the trees she caught a glimpse of a galah.

It was Rocky-Ali who broke the silence. “Greetings, friends.” “Greetings,” replied the odd little group of animals. “Is this her?” the koala inquired in a hushed voice. “It is,” replied Rocky-Ali. “She is very little. No bigger than a wallaby, really,” the kangaroo said. “Would that matter, though?” asked the cassowary. “Of course it matters,” replied the kangaroo. “Will anyone take someone so small seriously?”

Find out what happens next by accessing our engaging online reader – perfect for a family read along!