Bambi the Blind Alpaca: inspired by a true story

Bambi is a blind alpaca who lives on a farm with his brother Charisma. Bambi is blind but is quite happy to be lead around the paddock by Charisma who keeps him safe and stops him bumping into things. Then Charisma needs to leave and Bambi does not do so well on his own. He is very sad and lonely and keeps bumping into things. The sheep are unable to help him or make him feel better. Then another alpaca comes to live in the paddock with Bambi and Bambi is again happy and contented.

This is a true story based on the author’s alpaca Bambi. The backmatter with photos and alpaca facts really helps to explain why Bambi struggled without another alpaca to keep her company. And it is great to see a photo of the ‘real’ Bambi at the back of the book.

Jenny Cooper’s illustrations are truly beautiful and the emotions of the characters really come through in the way the characters have been drawn, and especially in their facial expressions. I just love the alpaca’s eyes and how they show so much love for the other alpaca at the end of the story.

Kindergarten and early Primary students will love this story and it makes a great read aloud!

Title: Bambi the Blind Alpaca: Inspired by a true story

Author(s): Jan Lummis

Illustrator: Jenny Cooper

Publisher: Scholastic NZ

ISBN: 978-1-77543-587-7

RRP: $18.99

Format: Paperback

Date of Publication: May 2019

Age Range: Kindergarten & Younger Primary

Reviewer’s Name: Angela Thompson

Reviewer’s Job Title: Teacher Librarian

Reviewer’s School Name: Remarkables Primary School

How highly are you recommending this book? Highly recommended.

First sentence: Bambi the alpaca and his brother Charisma were happy eating and playing in their paddock on the farm.