Cy Makes a Friend by Ann Marie Stephens - ESSENTIAL

Stephens, Ann Marie Cy Makes a Friend, illustrated by Tracy Subisak. PICTURE BOOK. Boyd Mills Press, 2017. $16.95. 

Cy is a cyclops who is naturally gifted at building. He can build anything! But his gift with tools does not mean he knows how to make a friend. Cy realizes he will have to venture out into the world and practice a whole new set of skills in order to make a friend. It takes hard work, but he eventually finds a new friend in a Phoenix and they ride off in his chariot together. 

I instantly loved this book. The illustrations are fun and engaging. The text is the perfect length for a read-aloud. The story itself is one that will connect with many young readers who struggle with making friends. I love that Cy has to make a true effort to learn how to be a friend and put himself out there, but it is a success! The use of mythological creatures to tell the story is also just a fun touch.

EL (K-3), EL--ESSENTIAL. Reviewer: TC