Two small children become new friends and have wonderful days playing together with their toys. But when one friend gets a new toy that he is reluctant to share, the friends are no longer so friendly. This story, told in clear, simple dialogue with bright, childlike illustrations, gives straightforward insight into the complications that can threaten even the best of friendships. The youngest audience will delight in the simple resolution that mends these friends' relationship as well as their toy.
About the Author
Lisa Clough
Lisa Jahn-Clough has written and illustrated a number of books for young children, including Alicia Has a Bad Day; My Friend and I; Missing Molly; Simon and Molly Plus Hester; On the Hill; and Country Girl, City Girl. She has taught at Maine College of Art and the Vermont College Writing for Children and Young Adults program.
Excerpts
Reviews
Jahn-Clough moves from basic alphabet and counting books to an elemental friendship story. A toddler is happy playing with her toys. She makes a friend with a boy who moves in next door, and they have fun. Then one day, they fight when she grabs his bunny and it breaks. She feels lonely, says sorry, and the friends make up. Young preschoolers will like the bright, simple, childlike illustrations, and they will feel the dramatic contrast when the friends stop playing and start to yell and pull and grab and shout. With a nice touch, the friends repair the bunny, and all their toys, with Band-Aids, which put things right.
Booklist, ALA
When a boy moves in next door, a young girl makes a friend. They play together happily until a fight over a toy results in the boy's stuffed rabbit's being damaged. The girl realizes it's not fun to play alone, and she has an idea that repairs both the rabbit and their friendship. The richly colored illustrations with strong black outlines are more effective than the somewhat flat text.
Horn Book
"A skirmish over a favorite stuffed rabbit nearly destroys a friendship and the toy itself, but well-timed physical and emotional bandaging saves the day. When a little boy moves in next door to a little girl they quickly becomes friends and start sharing toys. This works well for cars, trucks, bears, and balls, but when the boy shows up with a new stuffed rabbit, cooperation goes out the window. In the ensuing tug-of-rabbit, each child yanks on the poor bunny's ears until the stitching gives way. Figuring out a way to repair the rabbit also eventually patches up the friendship. Minor battles rage in homes and preschools everywhere, so children and adults alike will appreciate this subtle example of a peaceful resolution to toy disputes. Jahn-Clough's pleasantly stubby children convey both healthy loud-mouthed anger and substantial charm." Kirkus Reviews