The Capybara Who Captivated the World: Cinnamon’s Journey to a Children’s Book
Cinnamon, the capybara who captured global attention after her daring escape from a zoo, is set to become the central character in a new children’s book titled Cinnamon’s Big Adventure. This charming tale stems from an extraordinary incident that unfolded at Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Telford, where Cinnamon made headlines by fleeing her enclosure on September 13 when a gate was inadvertently left open.
The escapade of this adventurous rodent sparked widespread fascination, as she evaded capture for an entire week before being found in a nearby conservation area on September 20.
From Escape to Fame
Cinnamon’s flight not only enthralled animal lovers but also ignited a flurry of creative expressions online. Her story inspired memes, merchandise, and even a song. Tracey J Morgan, the author of the upcoming book, expressed her excitement about documenting Cinnamon’s adventures. She noted that the capybara’s journey resonated with many, showcasing how animals can capture human hearts in unexpected ways.
The book features illustrations by Hercule Van Wolfwinkle, known for his viral Rubbish Pet Portraits. His artwork of Cinnamon gained substantial traction on social media, leading him to eagerly collaborate on this project.
Morgan has deep connections with the zoo community; she has been friends with its staff for years. The idea for the book initially emerged as a light-hearted suggestion from Will Dorrell, the zoo’s owner. Morgan decided to adopt a rhyming style reminiscent of The Gruffalo, and even conducted a Zoom meeting with Cinnamon and her caretakers to gather insights about her adventures.
Reflecting on Cinnamon’s disappearance, Morgan shared that while many were concerned about the capybara’s safety, she felt a personal connection due to her long-standing relationship with zoo staff. “It was fascinating to observe as an outsider; I can only imagine how intense it was for those involved at the zoo,” she remarked.
Looking Ahead: A Heartwarming Release
Cinnamon’s Big Adventure is set to debut on December 16 and will be available through the zoo’s website. All proceeds from the book will contribute to maintaining the zoo and its inhabitants.
As Cinnamon embarks on this new chapter in literature, her story serves as a reminder of the deep connections between humans and animals, illustrating how even one little capybara can inspire joy and creativity across the globe.