Friendship

Best Friend in the Whole World by Sandra Salsbury

Roland is a solitary individual living a quiet life of simple comforts: drawing, music, and tea. But something is missing from his life. He realizes that he needs a friend.

On his walk through the forest something catches his eye. To the casual observer it appears to be a pine cone. Roland knows that this is something more. This might be the friend he longs for. He names his discovery Milton. Together the companions enjoy similar interests.

Then the unthinkable happens. Roland finds signs posted throughout the forest for a missing friend. Could this mean that Milton is a best friend to someone else? Initially Roland rationalizes that the missing posters are about a different pine cone.

Soon reality sets in and although it is painful, Roland resolves to help reconnect Milton with the individual who is missing a friend.

There is a happy ending to this tale. Roland meets Milton's friend, who happens to be a kitten. Together this unlikely threesome discover that friendship is even better when it is shared.

Salsbury’s wistful narrative and illustrations are tender and heartfelt. Best Friend in the Whole World speaks to the universal desire to have a close connection with others. Sometimes new relationships open a world of possibilities.
Observation: Be sure to note the cover. A pine cone peeks out from behind a tree, hoping to be noticed.

Making New Friends

Meet one very clever and creative nine-year-old. After reading Best Friend in the Whole World, she accepted the publisher’s challenge to make her own pine cone friend. The result is Suzy, a critter with googly eyes and a perky bow. Not wanting to limit the number invited to an backyard picnic, two acorns join the fun. Note those heart-shaped acorn eyes. Doesn't this look delightful?

Meet Suzy. Her favorite treat is Apple Cider Doughnuts. She loves tea parties with her acorn friends and going on nature walks. 

A special thank you to M, a reader with artistic flair and loads of terrific ideas. Don’t you love how she recreated the book’s tea party scene? What a welcoming invitation!

Uncorrected copy provided by publisher.

Pub date: March 1, 2021  Publisher: Peachtree Publishing Company  ISBN: 978-1682632505