How to Grow a Friend

Reviewed by: Terri Bauld - Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 8, 2015

Review

What could gardening and friendship have in common? In this first picture book by Sara Gillingham, the answer is explored throughout the story. With softly-colored illustrations utilizing collage and woodcut images, this story will encourage kids to explore gardening and to cultivate new friendships.

Using analogies throughout the story between growing a garden and growing friendships, the beautifully written text works well with the gentle, flowing imagery.

This little guide book also includes subtle messages on diversity, tolerance and tough times...such as when a friend bugs you and you have to work together to get the bugs to fly away.

A positive, feel-good book that will be a worthy addition to any public or school library.

Overall Book Score: very good