Friends Are Friends, Forever
What’s inside...
A picture book based on the author's own immigration story, the infinite impact of friendship, and passing on love and kindness around the world. On a snowy Chinese New Year’s Eve in Northeastern China, it’s Dandan’s last night with Yueyue. Tomorrow, she moves to America. The two best friends have a favorite wintertime tradition: crafting paper-cut snowflakes, freezing them outside, and hanging them as ornaments. As they say goodbye, Yueyue presses red paper and a spool of thread into Dandan’s hands so that she can carry on their tradition. But in her new home, Dandan has no one to enjoy the gift with—until a friend comes along.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dandan
Christina
Yueyue
Discussion points
What did you like best about the friendships shown in the book?
How did the characters show they cared for each other even when they were apart?
What would you do to help a friend who is feeling sad or misses you?
Can you think of a time when a friend helped you like in the story?
Why do you think friendships are important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use examples from the book to discuss the value of maintaining friendships, even through changes and distances.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by sharing personal stories of friendship.
Ask your child how they think the characters felt in different parts of the book to help them understand emotional empathy.
Create a 'friendship craft' inspired by the book, such as friendship bracelets or cards, to deepen the connection with the story's themes.
After reading, consider arranging a playdate or a video call with a friend to put the book’s lessons into practical use.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The story explores the depth and loyalty in friendships, demonstrating how true friends stick together through thick and thin.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cultivate lasting relationships and show loyalty and support to their friends in school and play.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: This book showcases a variety of characters, each with unique traits, illustrating that differences enrich friendships rather than diminish them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace diversity among peers and learn to appreciate what makes everyone unique in their community.
Example Lesson: Resolving Conflicts
Explanation: The narrative provides examples of how characters resolve misunderstandings and disputes with empathy and communication.
Real-World Application: Kids are taught effective communication skills to address and resolve conflicts with their peers, promoting a harmonious environment.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: Characters in the book often share their belongings and time, showing how generosity can strengthen friendships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of sharing with others, which can help in developing social bonds and collaborative skills at school or in playgrounds.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in Adversity
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters encounter challenges but demonstrate resilience by not giving up on their friendships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance in difficult times and the importance of supporting others, no matter the obstacles.