Review of Molly Makes A Friend

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Nancy Ferris Postilli
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Review of Molly Makes A Friend

Post by Nancy Ferris Postilli »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Molly Makes A Friend" by Brittany Wirthlin.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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The book, Molly Makes A Friend by Brittany Wirthlin, is a beautifully illustrated, fun children’s book that teaches readers the value of kindness.

The author, Brittany Wirthlin, does a brilliant job addressing what anyone may feel when experiencing something for the first time. The book's main character, Molly (a bubbly dolphin), is preparing to attend preschool for the first time. Molly hopes to learn to flip like her sister Dolly and make new friends. As Molly prepares for her first day, she feels nervous and scared. This is relatable for children (and teachers) of all ages because each school year begins with “first-day jitters for most. I am familiar with this feeling because I was a fifth-grade teacher for over 30 years. Each new school year brought anxiety and unsureness. This book is perfect for reading to a younger child worried about attending school or daycare.

I loved the book's acceptance/inclusion theme because it is one that numerous people feel when experiencing something foreign or new. We all want to be invited to participate or be part of the group and make friends. The author skillfully illustrates how the kindness of others lessens the discomfort and insecurity accompanying a new experience. I appreciated how, as the story progresses, the main character applies the kindness she receives from others and successfully navigates a “scary” new experience. It is a splendid example of following the "golden rule."

One thing that made reading the book tricky the first time through was that the rhythm was off. However, this is not a criticism or a reason to not read it because the rhyming truly added to the book's enjoyment. I found myself reading it over and over so I could get it right. Each time, I noticed something different in the illustrations or words.

There is nothing that I dislike about this cute rhyming book. I highly recommend it to parents of young children getting ready for daycare or school. If you want an engaging, fun read, this is it. I thoroughly enjoyed it and think others will too. There is an added element of playfulness in searching for a designated creature “hidden” throughout the book. I give this book a 5 out of 5 due to the impressively flawless editing and superbly written content.

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Molly Makes A Friend
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Williams Jaden
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Post by Williams Jaden »

Brittany Wirthlin's Molly Makes A Friend is a charming children's book that beautifully addresses the universal feelings of nervousness and hope when facing new experiences. Through Molly the dolphin, readers are gently taught the importance of kindness and overcoming first-day jitters.
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Post by Pauline Mukakimenyi »

Molly Makes a Friend by Brittany Wirthlin is a delightful children’s book about overcoming shyness and making new friends. Through Molly's journey, the story teaches valuable lessons about kindness, courage, and the joys of connection. It’s a heartwarming read with engaging illustrations, perfect for young readers.
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