From an acclaimed team comes this empathetic and reassuring picture book about the loaded question that every “new kid” or socially anxious child dreads, “Did you make any new friends today?”
Tomasso doesn’t know anyone at his new school and has no one to play with at recess. So, knowing his dad will ask, he resolves to make a few new friends. Each day his crew grows; there’s Roland (a foam ball), Coco (a milk carton), and Karen (a very pink eraser). But when his dad insists on having his friends over for pizza, Tomasso knows that soon his secret will be out. Will his dad welcome his new friends, even if they’re not who he expects?
Written for any child who struggles with making friends or social anxiety, and featuring warm, witty illustrations, Make New Friends is both silly and sincere, inviting kids to trust the unconditional love and acceptance of a parent.
Praise
***STARRED REVIEW***
"Stein’s text captures the experience of loneliness with uncomplicated empathy, and the dynamic he establishes between the single father and son is simply lovely. The narrative’s climax delivers affirmation with a just-right sweetness; this portrait of vulnerability offers both guidance to adults seeking to support the youngsters in their lives and reassurance for children... A tender, unexpected portrait of familial acceptance."
—Kirkus Reviews
