About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is caught in a cycle of comparison or when a playdate has ended in tears because of 'bragging' and hurt feelings. It is a gentle balm for the preschooler who feels discouraged by what they cannot do yet, or the child who tends to point out the shortcomings of their peers to feel better about themselves. Through the relatable characters of Little Roo, Country Mouse, and Quacker the Duck, the story explores the social friction that occurs when friends stop playing and start critiquing. Sam McBratney, the beloved author of Guess How Much I Love You, uses a soft and reassuring tone to model how an observant caregiver can help children pivot from competition to mutual appreciation. It is an ideal choice for ages 3 to 7, offering a concrete path from conflict to reconciliation while normalizing the fact that everyone, even best friends, can have a 'bad mood' day.
