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“A Persian child welcomes a guest. ‘I am excited to have you come over,” the young narrator says. ‘Knock with the secret knock only we know.’ …Throughout, the narrator addresses the friend; readers, especially those unfamiliar with Persian traditions, will feel lovingly embraced, as though they, too, are being invited to enjoy Grandma’s walnut cookies or to flick a marble of their own.”
–Kirkus Reviews

Dear New Friend

Written by Taraneh Matloob
Illustrated by Alida Massari
Published by Red Comet Press

A young Persian boy extends a welcoming invitation to a friend to visit his home in the hopes of finding friendship and acceptance.

A young boy invites a new friend to visit his house by writing a letter describing what to expect during the visit. As readers, we learn of the customs, foods, and traditions of this Persian family. The boy is clearly hoping for friendship and acceptance in this charming story in which he describes his family, games they will play, crafts they will do, and foods they will eat.

This welcoming picture book will provide a wonderful opportunity for reflection about our own lives and the lives of others we may know and promote friendship between people with different cultural backgrounds.

Primary ISBN: 9781636551463
Publication Date: March 2025
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented: ,

Themes: , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Unspecified

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 2nd Generation

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

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