Accompanied by beautiful, uncluttered digital images against lots of white space, Jarvis' simple, gentle story gives adults room to explain David's hardship to young readers in their own ways. A sweet example of how to be a kind and supportive presence in the life of a struggling friend . --Kirkus Reviews This tender story about emotions made manifest could help children talk about trauma and recognize its effects on themselves and others. --Booklist Beautifully conveys from a child's perspective the adaptability and acceptance of a child facing hardship. this heartfelt demonstration of compassion is fantastic and realistic in equal measure. --School Library Journal Keeping the focus on one child's sudden change and the narrator's willingness to help, J arvis crafts an extended metaphor about how good friends can share the burden of bad times . --Publishers Weekly A simple yet powerful story about the importance of having a good friend to help during difficult times, . an effective tool for navigating complicated feelings with young readers.

a valuable resource for teachers, caregivers, and guidance counselors. --School Library Connection The story -- so simple and stark, illustrated with beautiful washes of color -- says so much about kindness, friendship, acceptance and being there for friends suffering something difficult, without a single wasted word . It ends in a simple, dreamlike embrace between two best friends, one covered in blossoms, both smiling. --The Virginian Pilot.