sarah barlow art

Starting at a new school isn’t easy - especially when you feel invisible.

Leona is the new kid. She’s quiet, thoughtful, and still figuring out where she belongs.

Guinguin is a guinea pig with big dreams of the spotlight - but he wants to be taken seriously, too.

When their paths cross, an unexpected friendship begins.

The New Kid and the Guinea Pig: Friendship in the Spotlight is a heartwarming picture book about belonging, courage, and the many ways friendship can look. Through gentle humor and expressive illustrations, this story reminds young readers that you don’t have to be the loudest voice in the room to matter - and that sometimes the best friendships grow from understanding and care.

Perfect for classrooms, libraries, and cozy read-alouds at home, this story supports social-emotional learning while celebrating empathy, inclusion, and creative confidence.

This picture book is ideal for:

• Children ages 4-8
• Classroom and library read-alouds
• Kids navigating new schools or new friendships
• Teachers and librarians looking for SEL-friendly stories
• Young animal lovers, especially guinea pig fans

Available in a large-format edition, this book is especially well-suited for group reading and storytime settings.

Warm, thoughtful, and gently empowering, The New Kid and the Guinea Pig: Friendship in the Spotlight invites children to see themselves - and each other - with kindness.