Friends of Ripon Marina

Beside an old canal lock, three neighbors keep their distance. Fern is a fox, Willow is a cat, and Pip is a mouse—and they wonder whether such different friends can agree. Then rain rushes over the lock, and Pip slips from a high beam into the racing water. Willow calls out, but the current carries Pip beyond her reach. Can Fern act quickly enough to help?

Friends of Ripon Marina is a gentle rhyming picture-book story about a sudden challenge, a brave leap, and the kindness that can bring doubtful neighbors together. Young readers can follow Fern, Willow, and Pip from wary beginnings to shared moments beside the canal, with boats, playful chases, and crows along the way.

With rhythmic verses and friendly animal characters, this cozy tale is a lovely choice to read aloud with preschoolers and to share with little ones learning about friendship and helping others.