It feels really special to get reviewed in The Horn Book, and it’s an over-the-moon feeling to get a star! I love that they quoted the dad’s advice. I often try to write the parent I wish I was!
⭐️We Used to Be Friends [STARRED]
by Marcy Campbell; illus. by Aimée Sicuro
Primary | Candlewick | 40 pp.
10/26 | 9781536236064 | $18.99
In this poignant story, the unnamed narrator endures a most difficult period: she and her best friend have parted ways. She avoids places that trigger once-happy memories, relives their breakup, and retreats to her room, wondering if she will ever have another friend. The simple statements in the text convey her thoughts and actions, while the soft, uncluttered mixed-media illustrations reflect her sadness and isolation. Without offering advice, her dad twice comments on her situation, observing simply that “sometimes friends drift apart” and “sometimes friendships…just end.” Therein lies the power of this book: Campbell shows what the protagonist does but does not prescribe what she should do, instead inviting readers to consider each response for themselves. Her resentment persists: “It reminds me of when I have a mosquito bite, and Dad says to quit scratching, but I can’t. It feels good. Until it doesn’t.” One day, the sun comes out, and she decides to visit a nearby park, where she meets and plays with other children. On the way home, she walks by her former friend’s house for the first time. Small positive actions follow, such as joining a new club at school, and gradually she gains confidence and ease. Restrained and emotionally honest, the book validates the pain of friendship loss while allowing young readers space to recognize the slow, uneven work of moving forward.
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