MOMMY'S NEW FRIEND

A young girl acclimates to a changing family dynamic.

When That Guy comes to pick Mommy up for dates, Lily’s inclined to hide behind the curtains or stick her tongue out. Instead, she gives him a fake smile and introduces herself. When Lily goes out with That Guy and Mommy, she must be on her best behavior, and she has to get used to doing other things with That Guy, such as inviting him to her science fair. Things begin to shift, however, after she shows Daddy and That Guy her rocket ship schematics and, later, Daddy tells her that That Guy seems nice. When That Guy picks Lily up from school, she introduces him as Carl, and they play hide-and-seek in the park on the way home. Lily realizes that her life may have space for Carl after all. Told in the second person, this endearing story perfectly encapsulates the uncertainty children feel when their separated parents begin dating someone new. The sweet, warm-toned artwork is simple yet effective in conveying Lily and her blended family’s journey. This is an ideal book for families facing similar situations who need to show children that while it’s OK to feel a range of emotions, it’s also important to make room for new family members. Lily is biracial, Mommy presents as Black, Daddy as white, and Carl is brown.

A thoughtful portrayal of family.