About This Book
Reach for this book when your child seems hesitant to play with someone who looks or acts differently than they do, or if they are struggling to find common ground with a new neighbor or classmate. Nutmeg the squirrel and Barley the mouse live side by side but stay in their own worlds, convinced they have nothing in common because of their outward differences. When a sudden storm creates a shared emergency, they are forced to work together and discover that their unique strengths actually make them a perfect team. This cozy, gentle story is ideal for children aged 4 to 8. It provides a comforting model for how empathy and collaboration can bridge the gap between 'us' and 'them,' turning a stranger into a lifelong friend.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is entirely secular and uses animal metaphors to discuss social dynamics. There is a moment of mild peril during the storm, but it is handled with a hopeful resolution where cooperation leads to safety.
