Friend

A simple and bright board book about emotions, from an award-winning author and illustrator.

Through the up-close expressive faces of a child and their dog, we learn words for a range of feelings in this new book by Gavin Bishop for the smallest children.

This is my dog. My dog is silly! Happy. Sometimes sad. My best friend.

This bold board book is a starting point to talk about how we feel with babies and toddlers. Key words describe the many emotions a dog can go through in a short time, while the expressions on the faces of the people nearby convey a whole new raft of feelings as they respond and react. And so the story becomes one of friendship and how our friends make us feel.

A warm story to share with babies, toddlers and preschoolers showing a multi-ethnic family. With a gender-neutral child and inclusive illustrations, Friend is a tool for talking about colors, expressions, emotions and actions with young children. The simplicity of the words and pictures lets readers build their own stories about how they feel.

Companion title to Pops, Friend is the latest in Gavin Bishop’s board book series for the very young.

Gavin Bishop ONZM, Tainui, Ngāti Awa, is a leading Māori illustrator. He has published over 70 books internationally and been translated into multiple languages. His awards include the Sir Kingi Ihaka award for lifetime contribution to Māori art and culture, and the Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement.

Other books from Gavin Bishop:
Mihi
Koro
Pops
E Hoa
Cook’s Cook: The Cook Who Cooked for Captain Cook

Praise for Friend

“A charming reminder that friends don’t need to say a lot; warm hearts and expressions speak volumes.”—Kirkus Reviews

Praise for Pops

“A beautiful book highlighting the joy of spending a day with grandpa. Recommended for every shelf.”—starred, School Library Journal

“This chunky board book with diverse characters features clever bold illustrations that zoom in on specific details of warmth, love and the joy of family.”—School Reading List

“Full of warmth, this is a lovely book for a grandfather to share with a very young child and a good starting point for conversations about special times shared with individual’s own grandparents.”—Red Reading Hub

Praise for Mihi
“A simple, striking new board book that we predict will be in every ECE in the country soon – it ties into certain curriculum strands beautifully, but more than that: it’s a book that builds kids up.”—The Spinoff

Praise for Cook’s Cook: The Cook Who Cooked for Captain Cook
“Appealing illustrations and the lure of an insider’s account make this a delectable adventure.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Fascinating stuff recommended for foodies and picture book lovers alike.”—New Zealand Herald, Best Picture Books 2018