Once upon a time, in a sunny little garden surrounded by a tall wooden fence, there lived a playful rabbit named Peter. Peter was a curious bunny with a soft brown coat, big floppy ears, and a mischievous wiggle to his nose. He loved adventures, and one bright morning, he decided to explore beyond the garden gate. “Today will be extra fun!” Peter thought, hopping along the path.

Now, Peter’s mom had warned him many times to stay away from Mr. McGregor’s vegetable garden. “That’s not the place for little rabbits,” she’d said firmly. But as Peter hopped closer to the edge of the fence, the smell of fresh carrots and crisp lettuce was just too tempting. “A quick peek won’t hurt,” he said to himself, squeezing under a gap in the fence.

Inside, Peter’s eyes grew wide. Rows and rows of juicy vegetables stretched as far as he could see! He nibbled a crunchy carrot, munched some sweet peas, and even tried a leafy cabbage. But just as he was enjoying his snack, Peter heard a loud, grumpy voice. “Hey! Who’s eating my vegetables?” It was Mr. McGregor, waving a rake and stomping toward Peter.

Peter’s heart raced. Without thinking, he leapt into action, hopping as fast as his little legs could carry him. He zigged and zagged through rows of plants, dodging Mr. McGregor’s feet. “Stop, you little rascal!” Mr. McGregor shouted, but Peter was too quick. He squeezed under a wheelbarrow, darted through some tomato plants, and finally spotted the gap in the fence where he’d first entered.

Just as he wriggled through the fence, Peter heard Mr. McGregor’s footsteps stop. Safe at last, Peter took a deep breath and lay flat on the soft grass outside the garden. His fur was messy, his paws were muddy, and he had dropped the last carrot he’d grabbed during his escape. “Whew!” he gasped. “That was close!”

Peter hopped home slowly, his tummy still rumbling but his mind full of excitement. When he arrived, his mom was waiting for him. “Peter Rabbit, where have you been?” she asked, noticing his soggy fur and tired face. Peter hesitated but then told her about his big adventure. She shook her head and gave him a warm hug. “I’m glad you’re safe, but remember—sometimes the best adventures happen when we follow the rules.”

From that day on, Peter promised to stay out of Mr. McGregor’s garden. He still loved adventures, but he learned to find them closer to home, where he could explore safely without causing trouble. And even though he missed the taste of Mr. McGregor’s carrots, Peter thought it was much nicer to munch on the ones his mom grew just for him.

Little Peter Rabbit learned something important: Curiosity is wonderful, but listening to grown-ups can help keep you safe and sound.