Kids into books: Rupert goes to school

Author: John Parker

Illustrator: Mark Wilson

Publisher: Shortland Publications, $8.95

Age Group: 7 – 9 years

Martin felt Giddy. He was scared. He didn't want to go any higher. He came down, gripping the ladder tightly.

Martin went inside to look at Rupert, his pet rat. Rupert was more fun than climbing a ladder. He lived in a cage that Martin's dad had made.

Rupert had white fur, a pink nose, and a long tail. His whiskers twitched when Martin gave him food.