Walter and Xavier are best friends that do everything together. They hike, paint pictures and enjoy each others company sitting quietly. Then one day Xavier met Penelope and everything slowly started to change for Walter.
I have always been a big fan of any book by Deborah Underwood. Her stories are always gentle, kind and eloquently written for young readers. Children do not always understand friendship changes and this story may help them realize they are not alone. The feelings of anger and the hurt they feel are normal and healthy for their development. Even though at the time they do not think so; just as Walter felt when he did not want to do the things he used to because of the hole in his heart. As Walter slowly looses his friendship with Xavier, he must also slowly recover from his feelings of deep sadness. But time will pass with many more beautiful days ahead. Walter eventually decides to try something on his own that leads him on a path to discovery. A new friend waiting who may have been looking for one too. This story offers children the hope and reassurance for better days ahead. The illustrations are sweet and you can feel how Walter feels all throughout the story. The color palette is soft and calming adding to the beauty of this lovely story. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-8.
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