I'm Going To Make A Friend

Moving home is always difficult, emotional; a new neighbourhood, new school or pre-school perhaps… It can be especially worrying for the very young who may not be able to articulate what they feel. Perhaps the most worrying thought will be around new friends. Who will they be? Will they like me? Will they play with me? Darren Chetty’s picture book looks at these fears in a direct, instantly accessible way putting the reader firmly into the shoes of his young protagonist as these thoughts swirl around. He then allows them to provide a possible solution; to literally make a friend – because making things is something they can do. The text is immediate with an attractive rhythm that invites reading aloud and sharing. The illustrations are as immediately engaging. Prahbat’s images fill the pages without any extraneous details or distraction; they complement the words adding, never subtracting while her bold saturated palette brings life and movement. The illustrations leap off the page across the whole book from the opening covers to the end. There are a range of books that address the subject of change, new friendships, fitting in, Chetty’s picture book is a brilliant addition. Not only does it offer reassurance and support for a its young audience whatever their situation, it also invites discussion; a discussion and exploration that could take place in the home or the classroom. The production values are exceptional – bright uncluttered design, clear well-designed text with key words bolded, emphasising the child’s thoughts.