Bill and Pete to the Rescue
By Tomie dePaola
The Story
A crocodile and his bird friend travel to the United States to rescue a kidnapped cousin taken to an Exotic Animal Farm — and along the way, the bird himself gets captured.
Why It's Special
For kids who root hardest for a rescue mission with a best-friend duo at the center, Bill and Pete to the Rescue turns loyalty into an adventure worth crossing an ocean for.
- Big idea: Real friendship means showing up for each other, even when the rescue plan falls apart and you have to save your rescuer.
- Vibes: Playful, a little silly, and warmhearted, with the reassurance of a hero who never gives up on his friend.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy animal buddy adventures
- like to root for an underdog hero
- are working on understanding loyalty and helping others
- respond well to a clear mission-based story
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What do you think Bill had to do once Pete got caught by the Rich Lady?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Bill felt when his cousin, Little Jane Allison, was taken away?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever had to help a friend who got into trouble?
- Imagination: If you were Bill, how would you plan to rescue both Pete and your cousin?












