

Tom likes to read books. He has many books with pictures and words. He reads them every day. He learns new things from the books.
One day, Tom finds a pen on the table. He picks it up and looks at it. He thinks it is a magic pen. He wants to write with it. He opens a book and writes on a page. He writes his name and a smiley face.
"Tom, what are you doing?" Mom asks. She sees Tom with the pen and the book. She is not happy. She takes the pen and the book from Tom. "This is not your pen. This is my pen. And this is not your book. This is a library book. You cannot write on library books. You have to be careful with books. They are not toys."
Tom feels sad. He did not know he did something bad. He likes books. He does not want to hurt them. He says sorry to Mom. He says sorry to the book. He hugs the book.
Mom sees Tom is sorry. She hugs Tom. She says, "It's okay, Tom. I know you love books. But you have to respect them. You can read them, but you cannot write on them. If you want to write, you can use your own paper and crayons. And you can ask me before you use my pen. Do you understand?"
Tom nods. He understands. He says, "Yes, Mom. I understand. Can I read another book?"
Mom smiles. She says, "Yes, you can. But first, let's return this book to the library. And let's say sorry to the librarian. Maybe she will let you borrow another book. A lively book with lots of colors and sounds. Would you like that?"
Tom smiles. He says, "Yes, Mom. I would like that. Thank you, Mom. You are the best."
Mom and Tom go to the library. They return the book and say sorry to the librarian. The librarian is kind. She says, "It's okay, Tom. I'm glad you like books. Here, you can borrow this book. It's a lively book. It has animals and music and jokes. I think you will enjoy it."
Tom takes the book. He says, "Thank you, librarian. This book looks fun. I will read it and take good care of it. I will not write on it. I promise."
Mom and Tom go home. They sit on the couch. They read the lively book together. They laugh and sing and learn. They have a good time. They love books. And they love each other.
