Thierry Robberecht

There were many reasons why I liked this book. The characters are displayed as animals, which allows readers' to focus on the storyline rather than trying to identify themselves to a character's physical traits. The text is written on a solid colored background. The simplicity of the text focuses the eye on the vibrant illustrations which supports the text. All the characters are well-developed having lots of personality as shown through the detailed wording as well as the elaborate show more illustrations. The pictures are both clear and bright showing the bonding between the characters and aiding to the overall heart-felt mood as it touches on the subject of sexism and divorce, something a lot of readers will be able to relate to whether they have experienced it or witnessed it. The book pushes readers to not make assumptions about people until they truly try to get to know them. Don't judge a book by it's cover! show less

Thought this was great -- a kid is mad at his mom for "always" saying no, and ends up saying "I hate you!" -- then feels remorse, and ultimately reconciles with his parents. A great journey through a kid's temper tantrum, with very recognizable language for little kids.

Sam's New Friend was first published in Belgium and later translated to English. Sam, a self-described, "strong and brave" dog, plays with boys, not girls. When his mother tells him after school that the new girl in class, Ellie, will be coming over to play and spend the night, Sam is not happy. "But she's a girl!"

Sam is awakened during the night by Ellie's quiet sobbing. Her parents, she explains, may be getting a divorce. Sam models the behavior of his parents and treats Ellie kindly, show more comforting her and earning her friendship. And in the morning, he knows "she'll be all right, because she's tough. I'm Sam. I'm strong and brave. And so is my new friend Ellie."

Divorce may be mentioned in this story, but it is first and foremost a story of friendship and acceptance. The colorful oil painting illustrations and the vibrant colors of the text-only pages make Sam's New Friend an upbeat look at a sad topic. It's interesting to note that Sam's eyes (and the other characters as well) are depicted as small black dots - until Sam is "awakened" by Ellie's crying, and his eyes become wider and more expressive. show less

Thought this was great -- a kid is mad at his mom for "always" saying no, and ends up saying "I hate you!" -- then feels remorse, and ultimately reconciles with his parents. A great journey through a kid's temper tantrum, with very recognizable language for little kids.