The Friendly Bookshelf
What’s inside...
Meet Bibli, a brave little library bookshelf in search of a story about someone like him . . . Once upon a time, in a library like any other, there lived a little bookshelf named Bibli who carried a BIG question on his shelves: “Could there be a story somewhere about a bookshelf like me?” Bibli is told that bookshelves are supposed to hold stories, not have ones of their own. But everything changes when he meets Cassie, a girl longing for a friend just as much as Bibli longs for a story to relate to. Bibli learns that with kindness, confidence, empathy, and friendship, even your biggest dreams can come true—and that everyone has an important story worth sharing. The Friendly Bookshelf is a social-emotional learning (SEL) research-backed book and the first-ever picture book about a bookshelf. Written to build self-confidence and self-esteem as well as encourage inclusivity, Bibli’s story empowers children to be brave, be a friend, and always be your-shelf! Readers will be inspired to go beyond the final page of the book and share their own stories, as well as be the pioneers of a kinder, more inclusive world where everybody (and every bookshelf!) belongs.
Age
3-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Bibli felt when he discovered he could be a friend?
What do you think makes a good friend?
How did the other characters change their views about Bibli throughout the story?
Can you remember a time when you helped someone feel better like Bibli did?
Why is it important to include everyone and make them feel valued?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voice tones to reflect the different emotions that Bibli experiences throughout the book.
Point out the expressions and actions of the other characters in the illustrations to help your child understand their perspectives.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book, discussing their choices as they draw.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing similar situations where they felt left out or made a new friend.
Praise your child for thoughtful answers and insights during the discussion to encourage their engagement and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: In 'The Friendly Bookshelf', the bookshelf named Bibli becomes friends with various books and learns the value of companionship.
Real-World Application: Children can apply the lesson by valuing and nurturing friendships at school or in playgrounds, understanding that everyone has a unique story.
Example Lesson: Embracing Uniqueness
Explanation: Bibli realizes that every book, and thereby every person, has their own unique story and importance, which teaches children to respect and celebrate differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be inclusive and to appreciate the diverse backgrounds and abilities of their peers.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Loneliness
Explanation: The bookshelf feels lonely and overlooked until it discovers its own worth through interactions with others, conveying the message of self-worth and overcoming solitude with positive relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of seeking support and connecting with others when feeling isolated or alone.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Helping Others
Explanation: Bibli finds joy and purpose in holding and sharing books which help others, promoting the idea of service and assistance.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to find fulfillment in helping their classmates with studies or sharing their possessions.
Example Lesson: Continuous Learning
Explanation: As Bibli holds various books, it metaphorically 'absorbs' the knowledge from them, illustrating the benefits of continuous learning and growth.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be curious learners, exploring new books and topics regularly.