I Lost My BFF

 I Lost My BFF

A book about jealousy and rejection within friendships

by Jennifer Licate

Boys Town Press

Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles

Description

Sophia and Camila have been the best of friends for a long time now – since first grade! They do EVERYTHING together. They like the same things, and they always have fun!

So imagine Sophia’s surprise when Camila starts spending more time with Christabel, and it’s interfering with Sophia and Camila’s time together. All of this change is hard, and Sophia finds herself wondering why. Does this mean Sophia did something wrong? Does it mean Camila likes Christabel better? Sophia finds herself thinking… I Lost My BFF.

Through honest conversations and open-mindedness, Sophia, Camila, Christabel and Asha soon learn that it’s okay for friends to have other good friends, and not everyone needs to like to do the same things all of the time. If they are kind and respectful toward one another, their friendships can grow and change.

My review- 4 out of 5 stars

I think we all have had that one BFF who suddenly stopped hanging out with us. This book discusses the emotions a girl feels when her best friend forever simply starts hanging out with an another friend. It also provides a solution and a new approach towards friendship.

Sophia is sad because Camila, her BFF, is being distant with her. She's got a new friend and is hanging out with her often. Sophia finds herself alone, rejected and jealous. She does want to lose her BFF. She tries joining Camila and her new friend but they don't seem interested in her. This continues until Sophia can't take it anymore. She talks to her mom who advices her to communicate and express how she feels. But Camila is unaffected by knowing how Sophia is feeling. That makes her frustrated. Her mom further advices her to befriend other girls in her school. Mom explains her that friendship can't be forced, if Camila wants to have two BFF's she can. That Sophia should accept that while growing up we make many friends and not all stay. Amazing story with lovely illustrations and a wonderful message! Thank you Netgalley so much for the copy!

Rissy No Kissies

 Rissy No Kissies

by Katey Howes,

 illus. Jess Engle

Lerner Publishing Group

Carolrhoda Books ®

Description

A lovebird who doesn't like kisses? Rissy's friends and family wonder if she's sick, confused, or rude. But kisses make Rissy uncomfortable. Can one little lovebird show everyone that there's no one right way to show you care?

Rissy No Kissies carries the message that "your body and your heart are yours, and you choose how to share." A note at the end provides further information for kids, parents, and educators about body autonomy, consent, and different ways to show affection.

My Review - 5 out of 5 stars

Childhood is not all happiness, it is also about knowing yourself and learning to say 'No' to what you don't like. Rissy is a small little lovebird who does not like getting kisses from anyone. While everyone finds her mean or rude or sick and doubts is she even a lovebird... Her mother agrees that only Rissy decides what she likes or dislikes. It's her body so she has the right to say "No". 

Most of the times, kids are taken for granted that they love hugs and kisses, but just as adults they should be asked for permission before touching them. People should respect if a child disagrees to hug or kiss. 

The book is easy to understand and conveys the message very clearly. Thank you Netgalley for the advance copy.