Author Michael James read to the students of Robert Louis Stevenson Elementary and facilitated a meet and greet with the miniature alpaca namesake of Princess Pumpkin the Pocket Alpaca on Tuesday, November 20.
The book, co-authored with Amber Spiler and illustrated by Kristin Llamas, tells the real-life story of a tiny alpaca, born too small to survive at 5 1/2 pounds on Thanksgiving morning 2015. Most baby alpacas are born weighing between 15 and 20 pounds.
Against all odds, Princess Pumpkin did indeed survive and became the inspiration for the children’s book, aimed at ages 4 to 7.
“Adopted by humans and raised as a Princess, she seeks out friendship from other alpacas and learns that just being yourself is the key to acceptance,” explained James via a media release. “The book touches on the topic of bullying, acceptance and the value of a loving family unit.”
Rolling Rock Ranch, home of Princess Pumpkin, is donating $2 for every book sold directly to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and donating books to the hospital in advance of Christmas.
The Princess Pumpkin visit coincided with the Acts of Kindness program Stevenson Elementary has been emphasizing through the month of November by partnering with APEX Serve, an organization dedicated to promoting kindness in the workplace, schools and throughout communities.
“Our goal is to start a Kindness Movement in our school and community by showing students that it is not only extremely easy to be kind, but it can be a lot fun too!” commented Principal Christina Desiderio.
Students were able to meet Princess Pumpkin and her alpaca friend Miracle at the school’s three assemblies. Rolling Rock Ranch is an alpaca farm located in Canyon Country. More information on Princess Pumpkin can be found here.
