Best Friend in the Whole World
by Sandra Salsbury
What do you get when you introduce a lonely rabbit to a quiet pinecone? Best friends in the whole world, of course!
Roland lives a quiet life in the woods by himself, but sometimes he feels rather lonely. When Roland finds the perfect companion in Milton (Good listener! Enjoys music! Also alone!), he is overjoyed. It’s okay that Milton is just a pine cone; these two best friends have so much in common. But clues start popping up in the woods that could test Roland and Milton’s perfect bond. Posters appear everywhere suggesting someone else might be missing their best pine cone friend, and Roland must decide if it’s worth letting someone else be lonely just to keep Milton in his life.
In this moving picture book about loneliness and friendship, debut author-illustrator Sandra Salsbury celebrates the transformative power of connection and the painful melancholy of loss and brings Roland’s charming forest world to life with her endearingly classic illustrations. Perfect for little ones learning the importance of compassion and how to make new friends.
Download the activity kit and make your own pine cone best friend! And get to know debut author-illustrator Sandra Salsbury in this Q&A.
Are you a Milton or a Popkin? Take this personality quiz to find out!
“Who is the ‘Best Friend in the Whole World’? After reading this sweet, sensitive tale, children can decide for themselves.” —The New York Times
“The simplified forms, curving lines, and muted colors in the watercolor illustrations suit this gentle, rather melancholy story well…. An engaging picture book with craft-project potential.” —Booklist
“Salsbury never allows the tale to become maudlin or cloying, as Roland selflessly deals with disappointment, remaining a kind and compassionate friend. Watercolor illustrations, appearing as vignettes and both single- and double-page spreads, enhance the tale with lively, detailed depictions of Roland’s woodsy home, his expressions of sadness and joy, the sweet-natured Lucy, and, of course, the incredible Milton/Popkin. Young readers will sympathize with Roland and strive to emulate his kindness to his friends, whether real or imaginary. Life lessons gently told. Lovely.” —Kirkus Reviews
Share this sweet story with your own best friend when Best Friend in the Whole World arrives this March at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble, and be sure to check out the rest of our brand-new picture books and middle grade and YA titles coming to Peachtree this season!
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