My mom can't deal with the research involved in finding non-toxic toys for Nate. So for his birthday she got him the best BPA, PVC, phthalate-free gift: the most thoughtful collection of books. I think books make the perfect gift. Unlike most toys, good books will last and last & can be enjoyed for generations. First printed in 1958, A Friend Is Someone Who Likes You
by Joan Walsh Anglund is just such a book. My mother kept her small hardcover copy throughout her childhood and I was able to enjoy it when I was a little girl. It was one of mom's special books and I had to treat the petite volume, which was kept separate from the rest of our books, with care. Reading it felt like a treat and the book was always very special to me. I hadn't seen the story in years and had almost forgotten about it until my mom gave Nate the anniversary edition. So, shockingly, I cried.
The story is simple and sweet: everybody has a friend, even if you aren't aware of it. The illustrations are (I hate to use this word, but it is the most appropriate) precious."A friend is someone who likes you.
It can be a boy . . .
It can be a girl . . .
Or a cat . . .
Or a dog . . .
Or even a white mouse."
I can't wait to share this with Nate when he's old enough to appreciate it. In the meantime, I'll just keep it safe for him beside my bed. Thanks, Mom.
