Old Friends
What’s inside...
Paired with colorful and vibrant art by Lenny Wen, Old Friends is an inventive and heartfelt debut picture book that celebrates found family, caregiving, and the value of intergenerational friendships. Marjorie wants a friend who loves the same things she does: baking shows, knitting, and gardening. Someone like Granny. So with a sprinkle of flour in her hair and a spritz of lavender perfume, Marjorie goes undercover to the local Senior Citizens Group. It all goes well until the Cha-Cha-Cha starts and her cardigan camouflage goes sideways. By being true to herself, Marjorie learns that friends can be of any age if you look in the right places.
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they reunited after a long time?
What are some ways the friends showed they cared for each other?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend like the characters in the book?
What do you think makes someone a good friend?
How did the friends solve their problems together in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the book’s scenarios to their own experiences, fostering empathy and deeper understanding. Use expressive reading to help bring the characters' emotions to life, enhancing your child's engagement. After reading, consider coordinating a playdate or a small reunion to help your child apply the friendship themes from the book in real life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: The story showcases the enduring bond between characters, emphasizing how they support each other through various challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to build and maintain supportive friendships, understanding the value of being there for others.
Example Lesson: Value of experiences over material possessions
Explanation: The characters find joy and satisfaction in shared experiences rather than in material wealth.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to appreciate and seek out experiences, such as playing outside or spending time with family, rather than focusing solely on owning new toys or gadgets.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity and differences
Explanation: The story includes a range of characters with distinct backgrounds and personalities, teaching that differences enrich our interactions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding in their daily interactions at school or in the community, promoting inclusivity and respect for others.