The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin

by Beatrix Potter

"The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin" by Beatrix Potter is a children's book written and illustrated in 1903. The story follows an impertinent red squirrel named Nutkin who, along with his family, visits Owl Island each autumn to gather nuts. While the other squirrels politely bring gifts to the island's owner, the formidable owl Old Brown, Nutkin dances about singing riddles and refusing to work. Day after day, Nutkin's reckless behavior grows bolder, testing the owl's patience. His impudence leads to a dangerous confrontation that will change him forever.