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Thursday, October 29, 2015

Friendshape, written by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld. Scholastic, 2015. $20.99 ages 3 and up

"Friends may  quarrel ...

Are so.
Am not.
Did so.
Did not.

... but they don't stay
bent out of shape for long."

I love the humor and the sentiment of this lovely new book by two very special friends. I trust that you have seen and love their other books. If not, may I please suggest I Wish You More (2015), Exclamation Mark! (2013), It's Not Fair!(2010), Yes, Day! (2009) and Duck! Rabbit! (2009). That should get you started!

This time, they take geometric shapes to explore the concept of friendship, in its many guises. They are the  perfect team to design a book for their rapt audience of young readers. I love all of the plays on words as they go forward talking about friends and what they do for each other. You will have recognized the fun as soon as you had a look at the book's cover and witty title.

The rectangle, square, triangle and circle are best pals, and remain strong despite some minor blips in the course of their friendship. There are so many good reasons for each one of us to be surrounded by friends and they share many of them for us.

Each page turn builds concepts for little readers, and often provides visual jokes for older ones. There is a lot going on here, and that is sure to encourage multiple readings. Isn't that the best thing about book favorites? I can't wait to share this and listen to the giggles as listeners catch the subtle humor and enjoy both words and pictures.

Entertaining, sweet and sure to spark talk about friends ...  and perhaps even an art lesson or two.

"Friends are a gift,
because they fill our lives
with joy and ... love."

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