My Friend Maggie by Hannah E. Harrison

Ages 4-6

Paula and Maggie have been friends forever!  Maggie is great at so many things, like picking the reddest apples and splashing in mud puddles.  Paula and Maggie, Maggie and Paula like peas and carrots, until Veronica has something to say.  Will Paula turn her back on Maggie because someone else has a different opinion?

This is a great book that lets the beautiful illustrations do much of the work.  The plot is simple, but serious. Can one classmate turn another against her friend? It is unfortunate what peer pressure can do.   The feeling and emotion conveyed by the colorful realistic illustrations is grand! Your heart will sink and be lifted up again.  Forgiveness and loyalty are at the conclusion of this truly heartwarming story.  You will cheer for Maggie and hope for a happy ending.  

The Snurtch words by Sean Ferrell 

 pictures by Charles Santoso 

Ages 4-8

School can present lots of challenges, especially if your imaginary friend is a Snurtch.  Ruthie has a Snurtch and sitting still, paying attention, playing nice and keeping her hands to herself are impossible.  Will anyone understand or are there many time-outs in her future? 

The pencil and digital illustrations are fantastic.  Children will laugh out loud at the funny situations Ruthie and her classmates get into.  Of course her Snurtch is to blame for all the mischief.  Just when Ruthie thinks she must go it alone and no one will understand, she finds out all the children have their own unique Snurtch.   A cute read that many children will be able to relate to.  

Crafty Chloe by Kelly DiPuccio  Ages 4-6

Chloe has a crafty solution to every problem. But when she needs the perfect birthday present for her best friend Emma, she starts to feel a little insecure. How can a handmade gift ever make the cut? Even if it is very purple!

Chloe is lots of fun. She has a great imagination and will inspire youngsters along the way. Your little crafter will be ready to pick up the glue stick and construction paper as soon as the story is over. I happen to love crafts and the ideas will flow from Chloe and your youngster. Friendship and self confidence are also woven into this story. Will Chloe's homemade gift be a winner with Emma? Not without a little drama along the way! Chloe is a cute lovable character sure to delight.