Books about friends are always a good thing. This week many of us will help our kids choose Valentine’s cards to share with classmates, friends, and family. This is always a great opportunity to talk about what it means to be a friend. Stories that showcase friendship are a great way to reinforce these little life lessons and maybe even start a new conversation about the joy of being a friend.
Here are a few of my favorite “Friendship” books that you can share with the little ones in your life… during Valentine’s week or all year long.
HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND Author: Bea Birdsong Illustrator: Lucy Fleming
“Today, I will find a best friend!” announces a little girl to her mother as they walk to school. Her mother reminds her that it’s only the first day of school, and finding a best friend might take some time. But the girl isn’t worried, because she knows exactly how to spot a best friend. “A friend lends you a crayon. A best friend lends you a brand-new, extra-sharp green crayon,” she explains.”
A beautifully illustrated story full of reminders of what it takes to spot… and be a friend
FAFALLINA & MARCEL Author: Holly Keller
A caterpillar named Farfallina finds a best friend in a gosling named Marcel. They play together everyday. They are carefully considerate of each other, Farfallina not hiding in places where Marcel can’t reach and Marcel not moving too quickly for Farfallina to keep up. This continues until one day Farfallina feels strange and needs to rest up in a tree and Marcel promises to wait for her. Marcel waits and waits and as he does he undergoes a transformation. Little does he know that his friend is also undergoing some big changes. Will their friendship last when they reconnect?
A sweet friendship story that also teaches a little science!
LEON AND BOB Author: Simon James
Leon is new in town and doesn’t know anyone. That’s when he makes friends with Bob. No one else can see Bob, but Leon knows he’s there. One day a boy exactly Leon’s age moves in next door. Leon would like to meet him, as long as Bob comes along. But suddenly Bob is gone. How alone Leon feels! Is he brave enough to make friends without Bob beside him?
A very simple but sweet story that will be enjoyed by young readers and their parents.
FLUFFY AND BARON Author: Laura Rankin
One summer day, someone new waddled into Baron’s life. Her name was Fluffy.” So begins the adorable tale of a dog, a duck, and a perfect companionship. Perfect, that is, until Fluffy joins up with the wild ducks from the pond. Baron is suddenly alone—no one to play with, eat with, or cuddle up with at night. But when those wild ducks fly away, Baron’s in for a surprise—and more friends than he ever expected!
Beautiful illustrations, sweet tale of unlikely animal friends! Based on the author/illustrator real life experience.
BEAR’S NEW FRIEND Author: Karma Wilson Illustrator: Jane Chapman
Bear is out one summer day and hears a sound. He is sure that it is one of his friends, but slowly sees each one emerge, but the sounds continue. When Bear calls out to see who might be lurking in the trees or down a hole, he learns this mystery person is shy and somewhat bashful.
This addition to Karma Wilson’s “Bear” books is another enchanting, rhyming story that kids will love. Making new friends can be a little scary – for everyone. Bear and his friends discover a new playmate and invite him to join their fun.
