Hector

Hectors unusual black-and-white stripes make him the brunt of jokes among the other hippo children. “Youre a zebrapotamus!” they taunt. Ostracized by his own kind, Hector joins a herd of friendly zebras that takes him in and accepts him for who he is.

One day, Hector stumbles across a group of hippo kids who are being threatened by hungry crocodiles. A hero at heart, Hector rescues his kin, obliging the bullies to admit that only a fellow hippo could have made such a daring rescue.

This simple story underscores the values of forgiveness, respect for differences, and the need to see beyond external appearances—important messages for young minds growing up in a globally aware world. Bright watercolor illustrations show that diversity is part of the natural world.

Meet "zebrapotamas" Hector. Hes not like the other hippos in the jungle. His unusual black-and-white striped skin makes him the target of hurtful teasing from the other animals on the riverbank. But when a chance encounter opens Hectors eyes to true friendship, he begins to appreciate qualities of character he never knew he had. And when dangerous circumstances put him to the test, he proves just how powerful kindness can be.

Beautifully illustrated in rich water-colors, this simple story underscores the values of forgiveness, respect for differences, and the need to see beyond external appearances—important messages for young minds growing up in a globally aware era.

Steve Barnes is an interior designer, artist, and writer. He has designed a number of high profile shopping malls in Asia and the Middle East and has been commissioned to paint a number of public murals. He lives in Hong Kong with his wife and two young daughters.