Barnaby was a giant. Not a scary giant, oh no! Barnaby was a *gentle* giant. He was so tall, his head tickled the clouds, and his footsteps made the ground rumble just a little bit. But Barnaby didn't mean to rumble; he was a very careful giant.
All the little forest creatures were a bit nervous around Barnaby at first. The squirrels chattered worriedly when he walked by, and the rabbits hopped quickly into their burrows. They had never seen anyone so…big! They thought he might accidentally step on their homes.
One sunny afternoon, Barnaby noticed the little stream that ran through the forest was blocked by a big, fallen log. The little creatures needed that stream for their drinking water! Barnaby knew he could help. He carefully, *very* carefully, lifted the log with his enormous hands.
The water gurgled happily as it flowed again. The squirrels stopped chattering and peeked out from the trees. The rabbits cautiously hopped closer. They saw Barnaby wasn't scary at all; he was helpful!
A tiny field mouse, named Millie, scurried up to Barnaby’s giant shoe. “Thank you, Barnaby!” she squeaked. “You saved our stream!” Barnaby smiled, a smile so big it felt like sunshine. “You’re very welcome, Millie,” he boomed softly.
Soon, all the little creatures were talking to Barnaby. They asked him to reach the highest apples on the trees for them, and to gently move clouds so the sun could shine on their gardens. Barnaby happily helped with everything.
He learned that being big wasn’t about being scary; it was about being able to help others. And the little creatures learned that even though Barnaby looked different, he was a kind and wonderful friend.
As the sun began to set, Barnaby sat down gently, making a comfy hill for the little creatures to gather around. He told them stories of the clouds and the stars, and they all drifted off to sleep, feeling safe and happy with their gentle giant friend. Now close your eyes, little one, and dream sweet dreams, just like the forest creatures.