Dani’s compassion for others bubbles up in nearly every interaction she has, and Ali fashions her into a positive role model for younger readers to learn how to build thoughtful relationships with peers. When she’s caught between two arguing classmates during a learning activity, Dani seeks the teacher’s help—a smart move for school-aged children to learn—to resolve the conflict. This allows her to conquer her own shyness and reach out to Chris, who, she discovers, has a special way of influencing her for the better. Exchanges like these are sweet to behold, and adult readers will find several opportunities for meaningful conversations about kindness, friendship, and empathy in this story.

Ali addresses several potential sources of conflict for children, including how to bridge differences across cultural divides. However, that section feels a bit awkward, as Dani’s teacher compares students of different races to white and brown eggs, advising the kids in her class that “If you did not see the color of the egg, you would not notice a difference.” Still, the illustrations are bright and lively, and Ali smartly includes a list of potential questions kids can use when getting to know their peers.

Takeaway: Important lessons on friendship in a school setting.

Comparable Titles: Patty Brozo’s The Buddy Bench, Lisa Moser’s A Friendship Yarn.

Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: C+
Illustrations: B
Editing: C+
Marketing copy: B-