A Friend is a friend is a friend, written by Sara O'Leary and illustrated by Qin Leng. Groundwood, 2026. $21.99 ages 4 and up

 

""I have lots of friends here, but 
my best friend is my grandpa." 

"He and I like to sit around and talk
about the old days. I listen to his stories
about when he was small, and he listens 
to mine.""

This companion to the first two books in the Who We Are series is a terrific finale to the trilogy. Starting with family, moving to kids and ending with friends, the three books together are a welcome addition to all family book shelves. 

There are so many ways to make new friends when you attend summer camp. The young girl who is the focus of our attention looks a tad apprehensive as she wonders just how to do that. As she watches the many kids assembled, she wonders if any will show an interest in her. She moves from one place to another and there is always someone willing to offer ideas. The first tells her that her two new friends are together because they share the same birthday. Another explains that she has lots of friends at camp; then mentions that her grandpa remains the best of the bunch. 

Two new friends don't even speak the same language and it doesn't matter a bit. Others are friends because they like the same things: climbing, Godzilla, cheese, some colors. Going into the forest with someone who shares your fear of the unknown is the perfect opportunity for exploring together. Some friends are old ones; some are brand new. 

"We've been friends a long time. We were friends even 
before we were born, because our moms were friends 
when they were kids."

"And we'll still be friends when we are really, really old. 
Like thirty-seven."

"And if we have kids, then our kids will be friends.""

For all the witty conversation, readers will be excited to pore over the detailed ink, marker, and watercolor images created by Ms. Leng. The camp setting is perfect for the talk that takes place as the child wanders the camping area. Humor in the text is accompanied by lively humor and action on every spread. 

There is much to love here; you won't read it just one time. Kids will be wishing for summer camp to be just around the corner.