Introduces beginning readers to the concept of friendship through bright photographs and related discussion points. Kindergarten-Grade 3-This well-executed concept book by the author of Twins! (Atheneum, l998) explores the joys and dilemmas of friendship and encourages children to think about what they do in similar situations. Economical text sets the scenes and full-color photographs show various groups of racially diverse children interacting socially. The scenarios work through issues such as including a new person in a group, resolving disagreements, deciding whether or not to invite an unpleasant neighbor to a party, and being asked to cheat by a friend. The text explores options and readers are invited to respond to large-type leading questions: "Have you helped a friend during a bad time?" or "Have you ever told a friend 'no' if they asked you to do something you shouldn't?" Younger children can respond to several issues here but more articulate and experienced readers will bring more to the table. A helpful note to adults stresses developmental issues, such as differentiating between tattling and constructive talk. All in all, a useful and thought-provoking addition. Susan Hepler, Burgundy Farm Country Day School, Alexandria, VA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc. Good pacing is the strong element in this book about friendship. A component of friendship introduces each section, followed by a question to the readers. For example, Taylor and Gabrielle like to share interests. Taylor shows Gabrielle how to make greeting cards on a computer; Gabrielle teaches Taylor gymnastics. Children then have the opportunity to think about what new things they may have learned from their own friends. Another main attraction is, of course, Miller's sharp, well-composed color photographs of children engaged in activities together. The models' natural poses and facial expressions add depth and texture to the text, revealing the sheer joy derived from friendships as well as the disappointment when conflicts arise. Although the book doesn't broach the subjects of possessiveness and boundaries, it is an excellent choice for an adult to share with a child, especially a child having trouble making friends. Shelley Townsend-Hudson Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved