How to Spot a Best Friend

A young child is determined to find a best friend as she sets out for her first day of school. Though Mama tells her it may take a while, she declares she knows how to spot one. A friend, she says, “helps you build a block tower;” while a “best friend helps you build it twice” even if she knows it might not be the last time. A best friend, she explains, doesn’t just swing with you, she takes the time to push you, and when life gets difficult, “a best friend stands up for you” instead of just beside you. She concludes there’s one more ingredient that’s most important of all—being a friend to others.

This is a touching story children ages four to nine will hold firmly in their hearts. Youth with second-grade reading levels will be able to read it independently. How to Spot a Best Friend is ideal for instruction about kindness and reciprocity. It’s likely to spark thoughtful dialogue and meaningful responses. It radiates positivity and will leave readers with feelings of warmth and affection. The illustrations are classic Lucy Fleming—full of vibrant colors and glistening with emotion and activity. Her contribution is masterful and beautifully compliments the text.