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Brian & Bob: The Tale of Two Guinea Pigs
Brian and Bob are best friends at the pet store until one gets adopted, and they wonder if they will ever see each other again.
- GenresPicture Books
32 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2003
16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
February 25, 2018
. . . And I don't even like guinea pigs . . . .
September 30, 2025
A fun take on the story of pet store guinea pigs who are friends is upped by absurdity of the personified games they play and words they know.
The stakes are sudden when Bob is adopted, Brian left behind. While they are separated Brian deals with emotions of abandonment, sadness, emptiness. I really appreciate the emotional impact of this part of the story - and how it shares by showing what is not stated anywhere in this book, but an important thing about guinea pigs. They do not do well alone, and in some countries it is not even allowed to adopt individual guinea pigs as pets.
The twist at the ending was easy for me to figure out early, but I think most young kids will not. I'll let you read it to decide. It is heartwarming and satisfying, even if as Brian demonstrates, a bit exhausting to go through all he does.
I gave this book 5 stars for its fun read for younger children, and adorable art of animals.
My critical personal take is 4.5 star - due to some lack of research on guinea pigs: 1] both animals having clearly 4 toes on all its feet. It is only the rare guinea pigs that has a condition causing more than the norm of 3 back toes / 4 in front. 2] Peanuts shared in writing and pictures as part of a guinea pig diet is not outright wrong, but this and a number of other foods shown [& not shown] can actually be harmful for them to eat, or as more than a rare treat. I also found my attention drawn to a few of back legs appearing awkwardly disjointed.
However, the average reader will never see or think about these factual things, unless your child asks, or choose to bring up the topic. I only hope if this inspires a pet adoption, parents make sure to read thoroughly and speak to a local vet first to assure responsible care, feeding, and companionship.
The stakes are sudden when Bob is adopted, Brian left behind. While they are separated Brian deals with emotions of abandonment, sadness, emptiness. I really appreciate the emotional impact of this part of the story - and how it shares by showing what is not stated anywhere in this book, but an important thing about guinea pigs. They do not do well alone, and in some countries it is not even allowed to adopt individual guinea pigs as pets.
The twist at the ending was easy for me to figure out early, but I think most young kids will not. I'll let you read it to decide. It is heartwarming and satisfying, even if as Brian demonstrates, a bit exhausting to go through all he does.
I gave this book 5 stars for its fun read for younger children, and adorable art of animals.
My critical personal take is 4.5 star - due to some lack of research on guinea pigs: 1] both animals having clearly 4 toes on all its feet. It is only the rare guinea pigs that has a condition causing more than the norm of 3 back toes / 4 in front. 2] Peanuts shared in writing and pictures as part of a guinea pig diet is not outright wrong, but this and a number of other foods shown [& not shown] can actually be harmful for them to eat, or as more than a rare treat. I also found my attention drawn to a few of back legs appearing awkwardly disjointed.
However, the average reader will never see or think about these factual things, unless your child asks, or choose to bring up the topic. I only hope if this inspires a pet adoption, parents make sure to read thoroughly and speak to a local vet first to assure responsible care, feeding, and companionship.
July 13, 2021
3.5 stars
Cute story about two guinea pig friends. Does a pretty good job of teaching empathy for pets and encouraging kids (and adults!) to think about how their actions affect animals. Plus, guinea pigs!
Cute story about two guinea pig friends. Does a pretty good job of teaching empathy for pets and encouraging kids (and adults!) to think about how their actions affect animals. Plus, guinea pigs!
August 14, 2018
A bit long for very young readers but cute art
March 8, 2020
Adorable book about two guinea pigs who are best friends! It's a cute story with wonderful illustrations. The book deals with separation and friendship.
May 12, 2025
This book has a happy ending, but it was a little too sad for me! I read this book as I was getting ready for a "Pet" themed storytime, but I won't use this as a preschool read aloud.
August 5, 2010
3.5 A cute friendship story
February 23, 2011
Cute!
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews