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“Choi’s meditative prose pulses with quiet joys, while the use of softly blended colors brings warmth and charm…A delightful tale of fostering connection through art.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“This insightful picture book may inspire empathy for other children learning a new language and culture.”

– Booklist

“Warm watercolors bloom across the pages of this sweet story… young readers will easily connect with Jihun’s melancholy from missing a dear friend and celebrate his joy in expressing that love and finding hope in a budding friendship.”

– School Library Journal

A Letter to My Best Friend

Written by Yangsook Choi
Illustrated by Yangsook Choi
Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)

Today is the day I’ll make friends.

At least, that’s what I promise myself.

Jihun recently moved to the United States. In his new classroom, he receives an assignment to write a letter to his best friend—but he’s not sure how it will turn out. First off, he’s still learning English. Second, he doesn’t have any friends at school yet. What’s more, his best friend back in Korea can’t read.

Fueled by wonderful memories of his former home, Jihun uses his creativity to craft a letter for his best friend, Oto. The result is nothing short of extraordinary and opens a door for Jihun to make new friends.

Primary ISBN: 9780374391294
Publication Date: July 2024
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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