Rita and Ralph’s Rotten Day

PreS-Gr 2–Rita and Ralph are best friends who live on different hills in the same neighborhood. Each day they meet halfway and complete their special—and delightful—handshake. One day, Rita gets injured while they are playing. The accident leaves Rita angry and Ralph sorry; but as they both try to make amends, circumstances leave them increasingly grumpy, frustrated, and sad, so each friend goes home. Ultimately they find themselves back in the middle, feeling “sorry” and “sorrier” about what happened the day before. Oswald’s colorful, engaging illustrations perfectly reflect Rita and Ralph’s ever-changing emotions. The text is simple and flowing, making it a useful resource to discuss feelings with young children. The book concludes with a note from the author about reconciliation, and directions for Rita and Ralph’s handshake.