The Perfect Best Friend
What’s inside...
'The Perfect Best Friend' by Jenna Chou is a charming picture book set in Halloween Village. It follows Autumn, the littlest witch, as she tries to find the perfect best friend for the annual Best Friend Costume Contest. Despite various comic setbacks, Autumn embarks on an adventure with her cats, Midnight and Spooky, and invites potential friends by writing a message in the stars. A diverse range of Halloween creatures appear at her door, leading to amusing and touching interactions. The story reaches a twist when a hungry werewolf shows up, leading Autumn to realize that friendship can appear in surprising ways.
Age
3-18
Length
31 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make someone the perfect best friend?
How did the characters show kindness and understanding to each other throughout the story?
What would you do if you were in the same situation as the main character?
How can you be a good friend to someone else?
Why is it important to have friends who are different from us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, share a personal story about your own friendships to create a relatable connection.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings, affirming them without interrupting or rushing their responses.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's answers to delve deeper into their understanding and perspectives.
Relate the discussion back to the book by pointing out specific scenes or dialogues that align with the topic of friendship.
End the conversation by brainstorming ways your child can be a supportive friend in their own life, fostering empathy and action.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In 'The Perfect Best Friend,' the main characters learn the value of being truthful to maintain trust in their friendship.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by being honest in their interactions at school and with family, fostering trust and building stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story demonstrates how characters experience and react to each other's feelings, teaching children to be considerate and supportive.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children in understanding their peers' emotions and responding kindly, enhancing social interactions and friendships.
Example Lesson: The joy of sharing
Explanation: Characters in the book share their toys and snacks, showing the happiness that comes from generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share their belongings and moments with others at school or in the playground, promoting a sense of community and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Resolving conflicts
Explanation: The book illustrates effective ways for friends to resolve misunderstandings through communication.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to address disputes calmly and constructively with their peers, leading to better conflict resolution skills.
Example Lesson: Appreciating differences
Explanation: Characters from diverse backgrounds come together, highlighting the strength found in diversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace and celebrate differences among friends and classmates, fostering an inclusive environment.