My Friend Billy Whiskers

Patrick is so shy that he doesn’t join in with other children’s play. Instead there’s Billy Whiskers, his imaginary lion friend that no-one else can see. Together they ride bikes and read stories, and Billy listens to Patrick talking about all manner of things. The lion is a really good listener: he listens as they play games, swing in the park, and when Patrick kicks a ball or climbs his favourite tree from where he can watch other children. Eventually as Patrick continues to worry, Billy takes him on amazing adventures: they fly through the air, wander through magical forests and visit a stadium where the boy scores a winning goal in a football match. These adventures embolden Patrick, who is now sufficiently confident to say hello to other children and even join in their games. He has a terrific time but then he falls from his favourite tree. Suddenly, back come all his worries; if only he could fly away with Billy Whiskers. Instead something truly magical happens: his new friends make him feel brave just like Billy did.

The story doesn’t end there: Billy stays in Patrick’s life as he grows into an adult, though he only pays him an occasional visit.

David Litchfield’s glowing watercolour scenes are sheer magic especially the ones showing Patrick and Billy Whiskers flying through the night sky and wandering through the forest; they illuminate his wonderfully warm, touching story about an imaginary friend that helps a boy find the bravery he needs to participate in the real world with human friends.