Addie Needs a Friend is a gentle picture book about the emotions that come with a first day and the small moments that can change everything.
On her first day of school, Addie steps into a world that feels big and unfamiliar. She doesn't know anyone, and that uncertainty feels heavy. As she takes in her new surroundings, Addie experiences the mix of hope and fear that comes with being new. She wonders if she'll be noticed and if she'll find her place.
The story captures what it feels like to be new without rushing past those emotions. Through quiet reflection and imagination, Addie works through her nerves and gathers the courage to take a small step forward. Rather than focusing on grand gestures, the book highlights how something as simple as saying “hello” can open the door to connection.
At its heart, Addie Needs a Friend is about first days of school, camp, work, or any new environment that can bring anxiety at any age. The story reassures readers these feelings are normal and shared by everyone.
Written for children 3–8, its a warm story about courage, kindness, and how small acts can make new beginnings feel bright.
Addie Needs a Friend is a gentle picture book about the emotions that come with a first day and the small moments that can change everything.
On her first day of school, Addie steps into a world that feels big and unfamiliar. She doesn't know anyone, and that uncertainty feels heavy. As she takes in her new surroundings, Addie experiences the mix of hope and fear that comes with being new. She wonders if she'll be noticed and if she'll find her place.
The story captures what it feels like to be new without rushing past those emotions. Through quiet reflection and imagination, Addie works through her nerves and gathers the courage to take a small step forward. Rather than focusing on grand gestures, the book highlights how something as simple as saying “hello” can open the door to connection.
At its heart, Addie Needs a Friend is about first days of school, camp, work, or any new environment that can bring anxiety at any age. The story reassures readers these feelings are normal and shared by everyone.
Written for children 3–8, its a warm story about courage, kindness, and how small acts can make new beginnings feel bright.
We experience many firsts in life. They are wrapped in emotion, and for many kids, the first day at a new school can be nerve-wracking. Will the other kids like me? Will I make a friend? Will I have to sit alone at the lunch table or play all by myself at recess? In Addie Needs a Friend, readers watch as Addie steps into her new classroom, fear in her eyes, but by the end of the day, she's all smiles and ready to see what tomorrow brings. All because one child showed her kindness, and it all started with a two-letter word, "Hi."
It can be difficult for some people to summon the courage to ask to join a game or sit with someone. Fear of rejection, of saying the wrong thing, or of not knowing how to start a conversation keeps voices silent, as was the case with Addie. She wanted a friend but needed help making one. She needed someone else to take the first step.
Everyone knows a person who seems unafraid to talk to strangers. They don't shy away from the spotlight. They are everyone's friend. In this sweet and beautifully illustrated children's book, Emma is this person. She joins Addie at the lunch table and immediately gets the shy child talking. More importantly, she lifts Addie's spirits and gives her a reason to smile.
Kindness can be expressed in many ways. It doesn't have to be a grand gesture. In fact, the smallest of gestures can have the greatest impact. Addie Needs a Friend shows children the power of kindness and the importance of letting someone know they are not alone. It prompts them to be more observant at school and to make sure no child eats or plays alone, unless the child wishes to. The book supports being a friend to all, which is a very positive message! And if the reader is the shy one who can't find their voice, it asks you to remember that, even when we feel alone, someone special might be closer than we think.
I recommend reading Addie Needs a Friend to your child before they start school for the first time. Let them know their feelings are valid, but keep an open mind that unexpected, happy moments might be just around the corner or inside a new classroom.