Reviewed By Hilary Hawkes for Readers’ Favorite

My Truly Most Favorite Fluffy Friend written by Pamela Tomlin and illustrated by Tamara Piper is a gentle, warm picture book story for young children. It tells the tale of five-year-old Emma who loves soft toys. First, she has Bunny Blue who is good at sharing stories. Then one day she discovers Speedy Seal to play puzzles with. Soon almost every family outing results in the purchase of a new cuddly pal: Playful Puppy and Magic Monkey join the tribe and soon, according to Dad, the house starts to look like a zoo. Parents of small children everywhere will recognize this scenario.

I love Pamela Tomlin’s short comforting story as it describes a child’s love and need for comforting cuddly toy companions so well. Young children will identify easily with Emma’s love for her soft toy friends and the importance she attaches to each one – making each one a beloved favorite. The main character could be any child and I also thought this would be a good story for little ones who might be feeling afraid of a new situation. A repeating refrain in the story is: (cuddly character) sleeps with me when I go to bed, so I don’t get scared all by myself, S/he is my truly most favorite fluffy friend.” This makes the story ideal for sharing with children with fears about bedtime, sleeping in their own room, or somewhere different. I love that Dad understands his daughter and, despite the overflow of cuddly toys, gives her Cuddly Kitty for her sixth birthday. “You can never have too many friends. It is okay if you have more than one favorite”.

A beautiful message here is that there is always enough love to go around for everyone special. Tamara Piper’s illustrations are excellent and complement the story very well. My favorites are Emma with Banjo Bear and the final image of her tucked safely in bed surrounded by all her cuddly friends. A loving and empathetic tale of childhood that will resonate with families everywhere. Recommended for any young child’s home or preschool library.