My Friends and Me: A Celebration of Different Kinds of Families

PreS-Gr 2–This book celebrates the different ways that family is defined and the myriad configurations that exist, including families with two dads or moms, blended families, and foster families. It also suggests that friendship can cross socioeconomic divides, showing the main character having sleepovers at a mansion and a cozy camper. This book will provide an important “mirror” to children in these living situations so they do not feel different. As the book states, the adults in any of these situations can be “fantastic” and “loving.” The author maintains a breezy tone even when addressing difficult situations. For example, the main character refers to her friend with divorced parents as “seriously lucky” because she has “two houses, two wardrobes, two beds, and two bathtubs.” Additionally, she seems to suggest that the primary job of “loving” caregivers is to entertain and indulge their children. The adults are shown playing beach volleyball, surfing, playing dress up games until the wee hours, and satisfying their child’s over-the-top eating fantasies. The illustrations are bright and detailed, and offer cute clever commentary along with the cartoon images.