Cricket Courage - Marina Swan;Marina Swan

When Ellie and Ollie spot a tiny cricket being swept away in a rushing backyard stream, they spring into action on a secret mission no human must ever know.

In this heartwarming adventure from the Ellie and Ollie: Secret Adventures series by Marina Swan, young readers follow along as Ellie, a clever ginger kitten, and Ollie, a wise golden retriever, work together to rescue a small creature in trouble. As the cricket struggles against the current, Ellie and Ollie must think quickly, problem-solve, and use the tools around them to bring him safely back to shore.

But the rescue is only the beginning.

The muddy bank is slippery and unstable, and the tiny cricket is too weak to climb to safety on his own. When Ellie notices him looking toward the tall grass above, she realises that's where he belongs. With teamwork, patience, and gentle determination, Ellie and Ollie come up with a new plan to help him reach higher ground - using a simple but clever solution that young readers will love.

Blending gentle storytelling with real-life animal behaviour and environments, this beautifully crafted children's book introduces themes of kindness, empathy, resilience, and problem-solving. The calm, reassuring tone makes it perfect for bedtime reading, while the subtle tension and step-by-step rescue keep children engaged from beginning to end.

Featuring soft, whimsical illustrations and a structured early chapter book format, this story supports developing readers while still being enjoyable as a read-aloud for younger children.

Perfect for children who love animals, nature, and adventure, this story encourages readers to look closely at the small creatures around them and consider how they can help.

Why readers love Ellie and Ollie:

Join Ellie and Ollie on another secret mission - and discover how even the smallest creatures can inspire the biggest acts of kindness.