SIGNS OF FRIENDSHIP

A child feels left out when her BFF meets someone new.

Sally and Sonia have been friends since they were “smaller than small,” sharing laughter, tears, and, after Sonia’s deafness is discovered, sign language. One day, Sally shares an idea that’s “greater than great”: planting a flower and vegetable garden. Sally and Sonia happily spend sunny days in their garden and rainy days in their clubhouse—until a young boy named Dev and his puppy, Pops, move in next door. Sally likes Dev but finds Pops too exuberant for her liking. So while Sonia spends her time with Dev and Pops, Sally sadly tends the garden and visits the clubhouse alone. One afternoon, Dev accidentally lets go of Pops’ leash, and the dog tramples the garden. Initially, Sally is “madder than mad,” but when she opens up about her loneliness, Sonia explains that Sally is still her best friend, and Dev is lonely after moving away from his own best friend. Dev, who’s learned some signs, apologizes, and Sally and Sonia welcome him and Pops to their clubhouse. The alliterative, rhythmic text makes for an ideal read-aloud, and the gentle resolution encourages communication and empathy. Characters’ matter-of-fact attitude toward Sonia’s deafness is refreshing, and Chen, herself deaf, clearly depicts their American Sign Language signs in sunny, expressive cartoon illustrations. Sonia has light skin; Sally and Dev have brown skin and curly hair.

A warm, inclusive take on friendship and conflict resolution.