I have always loved reading and children’s literature is a passion of mine. I spent many years teaching first grade and teaching kids how to read. There’s nothing as magical as a really good children’s book. Will You Be My Friend? by Sam McBratney is one of those books that makes a wonderful gift for any child in your life.
This post is sponsored by Candlewick Press.
WILL YOU BE MY FRIEND?
Candlewick Press is an independent publisher based in Somerville, Massachusetts. For more than 30 years, Candlewick has published outstanding children’s books for readers of all ages.
We were lucky enough to receive a copy of Will You Be My Friend? from Candlewick Press. It’s a book I’m familiar with from my days in the classroom, but one that is a wonderful addition to my bookshelf at home.
Will You Be My Friend? is the sequel to the classic book Guess How Much I Love You. If you loved that book, then Will You Be My Friend? will be another wonderful addition to your bookshelf too.
The book explores a moment in our relationship with our children that I’m pretty sure most of us have experienced. If you haven’t experienced it yet, give it time.
The story follows Little Nutbrown Hare when he goes off exploring on his own because his dad is busy. It’s that moment when a child is disappointed because a parent is busy and unable to play. In the book we see nutbrown hare meet a new friend and have a wonderful time playing just like our own kids can do when they find something to do on their own.
It’s definitely a moment I can relate to as a mom.
Sometimes I struggle with feeling guilty when I am occupied but I know it’s important for my kids to develop independence and the ability to entertain themselves. The book also tells the story of the magic of making a new friend and reminds us about the importance of friendship in our lives.
Will You Be My Friend? is a great book to have on the bookshelf in your child’s bedroom or playroom for when they’re looking for something to do. Books are always a great option!
I’m a huge fan of Guess How Much I Love You? and the gorgeous illustrations done by Anita Jeram. Will You Be My Friend? features the same naturalistic, airy ink and watercolor illustrations. It’s really a beautiful book from the story to the illustrations. There’s such simplicity in the illustrations. It pairs well with this story, another one that focuses on some of the important things in life.
I’m also a fan of Little Nutbrown Hare so I love sharing more of his journey with my kids. The stories Sam McBratney shares with us about Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare are the stories of our families.
If you’re looking for a gift idea for a child in your life, books are always wonderful options. They’re gifts that keep giving and are a wonderful way to spend time with our kids.
Candlewick Press features an amazing collection of children’s book authors and titles. Their award-winning authors include Newbery Medal winner Kate DiCamillo, Jon Klassen, Meg Medina, and M.T Anderson, and our popular book series include Judy Moody, Mercy Watson, Guess How Much I Love You, Maisy, and Where’s Waldo.
Visit www.candlewick.com to learn more about all of the wonderful books they have to offer!
Leave a Reply