There are plenty of books for kids out there explaining divorce, separation and going between parents' houses on weekends but exploring when a parent gets a new partner is a first. Tougas handles it adroitly, acknowledging a child's conflicting feelings but showing one can act civilly even if you're not quite accepting of the new person. Mommy's new friend is referred to as "That Guy" throughout, eventually revealed as Carl as the little girl discovers Carl's good points and comes to see that family can expand to a new form. Well done! ( )