A New Friend

Written by Diane Jackman

Illustrated by Michael Willet

“Wake up, Henry. I ’ve put your acorn flakes on the table,” said Mattie.

Henry rubbed his eyes. The sun shone in through the round window.

“What a lovely day,” he said.

But as he climbed out of bed, the little house went dark.

“ What’s happened?” squeaked Henry. “Where’s the sun gone?”

“I don’t know,” said Mattie. “OW!” She stubbed her toe on the stove.

Something shiny and black almost filled the round window. Henry opened the door and peeped outside. He began to laugh.

“ The sun is still shining. It’s our new friend the hedgehog.”

“Good morning, mice,” growled Spiky. “You gave us a fright,” said Mattie. “Come and have breakfast with us. ” Spiky looked at the little door. “ I think you will have to come out here. ”

Mattie spread a white table cloth with red spots on the grass. Henry carried out the food.

“ Here we are,” said Mattie. “ Our first breakfast picnic with Spiky. I hope you like acorn flakes.”