
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the arrival of a new sibling or feeling replaced by a new friend at preschool. It is a gentle, comforting story that validates the complicated sting of jealousy and the fear that there might not be enough love to go around. Through the eyes of Ebb the dog, children see their own territorial feelings reflected and normalized without judgment. The story follows Ebb, a dog who loves her life with Flo until a small bird joins their circle. Ebb's initial resentment and eventual realization that a 'new friend' doesn't mean an 'old friend' is lost provides a soft landing for kids aged 2 to 5. Jane Simmons's expressive, impressionistic illustrations capture the emotional weight of Ebb's solitude and the warmth of reconciliation. It is an ideal choice for parents looking to open a dialogue about sharing and the expanding nature of love.
The book deals with emotional displacement and jealousy. The approach is metaphorical, using animals to represent the 'replacement' anxiety a child feels. It is entirely secular and the resolution is hopeful and realistic.
A preschooler who has recently become a big brother or sister and is acting out or withdrawing because they feel the new baby has 'stolen' their place with their parents.
No specific previewing is necessary. The book can be read cold, though parents should be prepared to pause on the pages where Ebb looks particularly sad to ask what Ebb might be thinking. A parent might reach for this after seeing their child push a friend away on a playdate or hearing their child say, 'I don't like the baby, send them back.'
A 2-year-old will enjoy the animal sounds and the simple 'no' and 'yes' dynamics. A 4 or 5-year-old will more deeply internalize the social lesson about 'three not being a crowd' and the feeling of missing someone you were just angry with.
Unlike many 'new sibling' books that focus on the baby's needs, this book focuses entirely on the older party's internal emotional journey and their eventual choice to be inclusive.
Ebb is a dog who enjoys a peaceful, exclusive relationship with her human, Flo. When a small, persistent bird (Bird) joins their daily activities, Ebb feels sidelined and jealous. After Ebb's frustration leads to a moment of isolation, a rainy day and a sense of loneliness prompt Ebb to realize she misses the company of both Flo and the new bird. The story concludes with Ebb accepting Bird into their group, expanding their duo into a trio.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review