Guinea pigs are the fifth most popular pet species worldwide and, with the release of Disney's major animation, G-Force, in summer 2009, the popularity of guinea pigs is set to explode.In the UK, guinea pigs are the second most popular small furry pet, just behind rabbits. It is estimated that there are around 0.5 million pet guinea pigs in the UK.From the members of the jury in Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Beatrix Potter's poem, 'The Amiable Guinea Pig', to Michael Bond's Olga da Polga, guinea pigs hold a special place in children's literature but, surprisingly, there are very few picture books that feature these cute, cuddly pets so Christopher Nibble is guaranteed to stand out among a crowd of mice and bunnies.Christopher Nibble has been selected as the Judges' Top Choice in the picture-book category of Scholastic Best Books 2009 which will be revealed in a 'Read Me' supplement in the November issues of both Child Education Plus and Junior Education Plus magazines.From the Warhol-esque endpapers to the collage cabbages and Christopher's enviable wardrobe of patterned shorts, Charlotte Middleton's illustrations are stylish and unique.Charlotte Middleton's accessible illustrations will also inspire children to make their own collage pictures using fabrics, patterned papers, and even pressed flowers.

Charlotte Middleton and Christopher Nibble will be appearing at the 2009 Cheltenham Children's Literature Festival.There are very few picture books that deal with environmental issues, and even fewer that manage to keep the tone fun and funky. The message in Christopher Nibble is delivered in a witty and light-hearted manner.The story encourages young children to think about what they eat, conservation, and ecological awareness - all important life skills to develop from the earliest age.A book that celebrates simple pleasures for children and parents to share - from visiting the library, to picnicking, to blowing the seedlings from dandelion clocks!.