An Ode to BFFs
The CBC looks for a theme to spotlight in each month’s Hot Off the Press list so that we can alert parents, teachers, librarians, booksellers, and all children’s book enthusiasts to cool new offerings from our member publishers.
Friendship is, quite literally, the gift that keeps on giving. Science has shown that it can decrease stress, prevent anxiety, boost happiness, and actually lengthen one’s lifespan. For kids, friendship is doubly important as—in addition to providing a peer-focused support network—it also teaches empathy, compromise, selflessness, and kindness. These friend-focused books from our May Hot Off the Press list celebrate these important bonds, showing how pals, chums, buddies, and mates (be they human or animals) can forever leave a handprint on your heart.
7 Best Things About Friends, by Flowerpot Press; illustrated by Patrick Yee (Flowerpot Press) — Friendships, Animals, Kindness / Generosity, ages 0-3.
There are so many great things about friends, but these are the seven best things!
We asked real kids what they love most about their friends and these are the most popular answers. This book features cuddly animal friends sharing high-fives and big laughs, telling stories, playing games, sharing toys, helping each other, and eating snacks together. Simplistic text and colorful illustrations make this a great book for your young reader.
Bella and Bean, by Sandra Bradley; illustrated by Udayana Lugo (Pajama Press) — Friendships, Animals, Careers / Hobbies, Humor, ages 4-6.
For hippos, becoming big is guaranteed, and Bella and Bean can’t wait! But recently, Bella has started to dream about being something even bigger than big…
Bella and Bean have always enjoyed spending their time in the mud, dreaming of being big one day. But Bella is ready to share a new dream—opening a spa! Despite her friends and neighbors’ doubts, Bella is sure that with hard work, determination, and a little help, her dream may just come true. Written with humor and heart, Bella and Bean highlight the importance of supporting one another, perseverance, and believing that anything is possible!
Award-winning author of Cocoa Magic, Sandra Bradley, brings humor, thoughtfulness, and charm to the text. While highly acclaimed illustrator, Udayana Lugo, utilizes delightful dimension and depth in her mixed media art.
Don’t Cut My Hair!, written & illustrated by Bheng Pay (Clavis) — Mental / Physical Health, Social Emotional Learning, Friendships, Kindness / Generosity, ages 4-6.
Millie has gorgeous hair. It’s useful, helpful, and fun! Her best friend, Chloe, loves Millie’s hair and believes it should never be cut. But when Chloe is hospitalized for cancer treatment and loses her own hair, Millie is determined to help her friend in a meaningful way.
This touching story, perfect for children ages 5 and up, explores themes of friendship and cancer with sensitivity and heart. Debut author/illustrator Bheng Pay offers a poignant narrative that serves as an excellent conversation starter about cancer. The uplifting illustrations and vibrant colors highlight the story’s message of selfless love and the deep bond of friendship.
A touching story about the gift of friendship in every season. For children ages 5 years and up.
Elvis & Romeo, by Jacky Davis and David Soman; illustrated by David Soman (Simon & Schuster / Aladdin) — Animals, Friendships, Social Emotional Learning, Humor, ages 4-6.
From the bestselling creators of the Ladybug Girl series comes a picture book about the misadventures of two very different dogs who become unlikely friends.
Elvis, the bulldog, just wants a little peace and quiet.
Romeo, the doodle, really wants to make new friends and play at the dog park.
When they first meet, it seems Elvis and Romeo have nothing in common. But little by little, these polar-opposite pooches may just become the closest of canines.
I’m Going to Make a Friend, by Darren Chetty; translated by Sandhya Prabhat (Tiger Tales Books) — Friendships, Technology / Inventions, Social Emotional Learning, ages 4-6.
A funny, philosophical take on the pursuit of friendship that’s perfect for back-to-school and going-to-a-new-school experiences.
Moving to a new neighborhood comes with many challenges, especially when it comes to making new friends. Will they play how I want to play? The young narrator wonders. Will they hug me when I’m sad, or give me space? So many questions! But in the end, the only plausible thing to do is to dive in and give it a try. An ideal choice for back-to-school or going to a new school reading.
Jeff the Frog—The Lost Hop, by Adam Ciccio; illustrated by Natallia Bushuyeva (Clavis) — Mental / Physical Health, Social Emotional Learning, Death / Grief / Loss, Friendships, ages 4-6.
This is Jeff. He used to be a happy frog. He loved hopping from lily pad to lily pad with his three friends, Dominic, Fred, and Alice. But when his best friend, Dominic, suddenly moves away, Jeff feels so sad that he loses his hop. Can his friends find a way to help Jeff hop again?
This heartwarming story, crafted by author and child psychologist Adam Ciccio, addresses the challenges of depression and the pain of saying goodbye. It serves as a powerful resource for promoting mental well-being and self-acceptance. With its simple narrative and charming pastel illustrations, this book makes complex emotions accessible to young readers, opening up conversations about sadness and the support of caring friends.
A heartwarming story about conquering depression with the support of caring friends. For frogs and friends ages 5 years and up.
Maddie and Mabel Make a Friend: Book 6, by Kari Allen; illustrated by Tatjana Mai-Wyss (Kind World Publishing) — Family / Community, Friendships, Kindness / Generosity, Imagination / Play, ages 4-6.
Maddie and Mabel are sisters. Maddie and Mabel are friends. Best friends. Will their “best” be put to the test when a moving truck pulls up next door? A new friend is exciting at first. But soon it starts to feel like there is not enough room in the playing and laughing and secret-telling for more than two friends. Healing differences and growing friendships will take a lot of listening, curiosity, a little humor, and open hearts.
In the sixth book of the award-winning Maddie and Mabel series, Kari Allen and Tatjana Mai-Wyss bring to life the timeless challenges of a friendship triangle, the lessons of growth and forgiveness, and the cherished friendship between siblings that readers have come to love.
A Swing for Samara, by Nancy Carlson (North Star Editions / Jolly Fish Press) — Disabilities, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, Friendships, Kindness / Generosity, ages 4-6.
Marco and Samara are best pals and have fun doing all sorts of activities together. But there’s one thing they can’t do together—swing. That’s because wheelchairs don’t fit on swings. So, Marco and the other kids at school decide to raise money for swings all kids can use. Inspired by the true story of the students at Glen Lake Elementary in the Hopkins school district in Minnesota, A Swing for Samara celebrates the power of compassion and inclusion and highlights the many ways accessible playground equipment benefits all children.
Tiger Don’t Worry, written & illustrated by Daishu Ma (Post Wave) — Social Emotional Learning, Friendships, Animals, ages 4-6.
The adorable duo are back! In this heart-warming tale of friendship, responsibility and courage, Mei and her exuberant friend Tiger eagerly try to help make tea, but their efforts lead to broken tools and panic! Fearing being scolded, they run away, but Mei soon realises the importance of facing their mistake. Returning home with trepidation, they are met not with anger, but with patience – and a lesson on how to make tea properly! This delightful story concludes with Mei and Tiger learning that admitting mistakes and learning together brings them closer to their family.
Tucker’s Impact, by Paul Gibson; illustrated by Nino Palmieri (Lawley Publishing) — Kindness / Generosity, Friendships, Imagination / Play, Social Emotional Learning, ages 7-12.
One thing Tucker knows is that he loves superheroes. On the first day of kindergarten, he hopes to find a friend who loves them like he does. Right away, Tucker meets Randy, someone who would love to play superheroes on the playground! But there’s a problem—Randy is different. He has trouble listening in class and sometimes acts weird. Tucker feels confused. Can he be friends with someone who doesn’t fit in?
Join Tucker as he learns how the impact of being kind can truly be heroic to someone who needs to feel included.
Two Tricksters Find Friendship, by Johnny Aitken, Jess Willows; illustrated by Alyssa Koski (Orca Book Publishers) — Friendships, BIPOC Characters and Creators, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, Folklore / Fairytales / Myths, ages 7-12.
To Jessie and Johnny, their friendship is easy.
Jessie and Johnny have been inseparable ever since Jessie moved to the small island town during summer break. But as they begin fourth grade together, the new school year gets off to a rocky start when outside pressures and differences in their home lives threaten their friendship. Jessie lives comfortably and never worries about money while Johnny lives with his father and stepmother on the reserve outside of town. With guidance from Raven and spiritual teacher, Steven, the two friends bridge the gaps between them and learn to lean on each other through family troubles and cultural differences.
Where Are You, Brontë?, by Tomie dePaola; illustrated by Barbara McClintock (Simon & Schuster / Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) — Animals, Death / Grief / Loss, Friendships, Biography / Memoir, ages 4-6.
This touching story about love, loss, and remembrance in the wake of losing a beloved pet is the final completed book written by beloved creator Tomie dePaola, with art by award-winning illustrator Barbara McClintock.
Where are you, Brontë?
The day you left me, I knew I would miss you.
And I did. Every day, every night.
But then, I knew you were right here, still with me, in my heart forever.
Children’s book legend Tomie dePaola tells the emotional and deeply personal story about overcoming his grief after the loss of his beloved dog, Brönte.
For more great book suggestions, be sure to check out the full May Hot Off the Press list!
List compiled by CBC’s resident book connoisseur, Brooke Pisarsky. Check out other Hot Off the Press Spotlight book lists on our blog.
