The Friend Ship

Reach for this book when your child feels like they are on the outside looking in, or if they have expressed that they do not know how to find a best friend. It is a gentle remedy for the social anxiety that often accompanies 'joining in' or searching for a sense of belonging in a new environment. The story follows a lonely little hedgehog who misinterprets a phrase and sets out on a quest to find a physical ship called 'The Friend Ship.' As she travels, she meets a variety of animals who are also searching for the same thing. Through their shared journey, they discover that friendship isn't a destination or a vessel you board, but the connection you build along the way. This book is perfect for preschoolers and early elementary students, offering a sweet, metaphorical approach to social-emotional development without being overly didactic.