The Very Best of Friends
Chapter Book · Ages 4–8 · 1989

The Very Best of Friends

By Margaret Wild, Julie Vivas (Illustrator)

A widow and a neglected cat find solace in each other.

4.2/5 Goodreads · 107 ratings

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Bookroo's summary

After her husband's sudden death, Jessie is left alone with William, his cherished cat. As she grapples with grief, she notices William's transformation from a beloved pet to a neglected shadow. Realizing they both need companionship, Jessie must decide if she can open her heart to the feline friend her husband adored. Can they heal together in the quiet countryside, or will their shared loneliness keep them apart? This touching tale explores the bonds of love and the healing power of friendship in unexpected places.

From the publisher

When her husband, James, dies suddenly, Jessie neglects William, James’s beloved cat. Then she realizes how lean and mean William has become without affection and that she needs his friendship, too. “This winning story stands among the growing number of picture books using country life as a metaphor and as a setting for playing out fundamental human experiences and dilemmas.”-The Horn Book

At a glance
Format
Paperback
Reading age
4–8
Audience
Picture
Lexile
~600L
Themes & topics
Books about friendship
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The fine print

Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
3.9
F&P level
~O
AR points
0.5
AR interest level
LG
AR quiz
134316
Publication
Published
January 1, 1990
First published
January 1, 1989
Edition
Language
English
Type
Chapter Book
Identifiers
ISBN
9781550740196

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