Last Day Julian Was My Best Friend

About the AuthorJody Jensen Shaffer is an award-winning poet and the author of more than eighty books for children, including Prudence the Part-Time Cow, illustrated by Stephanie Laberis, a Missouri Show Me Award finalist; A Chip Off the Old Block, illustrated by Daniel Miyares, a nominee for the Iowa Goldfinch Award; and the Amazon bestseller It’s Your First Day of School, Busy Bus!, illustrated by Claire Messer. Jody lives in Liberty, Missouri, with her family. Learn more at jodyjensenshaffer.com and follow her on X @jodywrites4kids.About the IllustratorJoanne Lew-Vriethoff is the acclaimed illustrator of many children’s books, including the bestselling updated edition of The Invisible String and its companion titles, all written by Patrice Karst; Stacy McAnulty’s Beautiful and Brave; and Who Will I Be?, written by The View cohost Abby Huntsman. Born in Malaysia, Joanne grew up in Los Angeles, studied at the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, and now lives between Amsterdam and Malaysia. Learn more at joannelewvriethoff.com and follow her on Instagram @joannelewvriethoff.

A Crystal Kite Award Winner“The tale delivers an important message about forgiveness and the importance of taking responsibility for wrongdoings…A touching exploration of the complicated dynamics of friendship.” —Kirkus Reviews“Shaffer examines an infrequently addressed childhood experience in children’s literature: stealing toys from friends…Lew-Vriethoff’s simple linework, bright colors, and uncomplicated compositions allow this story of childhood troubles to flow unencumbered. In the end, Julian’s response shows readers that honesty and forgiveness are crucial components of true friendship at any stage of life.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books“In this suspenseful friendship narrative, Jensen Shaffer examines what happens when one companion betrays the trust of another…[A] confession both ends the agony of unsaid words and leads to a surprising resolution. Breezy digital slice-of-life illustrations by Lew-Vriethoff depict expressive faces and summery landscapes.” —Publishers Weekly“With its underlying themes of friendship and forgiveness, The Last Day Julian Was My Best Friend is a charmingly crafted, original, and fun read from start to finish.” —Midwest Book Review“A touching story about friendship and forgiveness, one that kids will easily relate to and learn from.” —Story Monsters Ink