About the Book

"Jihun recently moved to the United States. In his new classroom, he receives an assignment to write a letter to his best friend's 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"--

Book Synopsis

From Yangsook Choi comes an empowering picture book about a child learning a new language to keep in touch with an old friend.

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.

Review Quotes

Colorado CLEL Bell Award Honor Book

"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

"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

About the Author

Yangsook Choi is the author and/or illustrator of many celebrated picture books, including The Name Jar and Peach Heaven, and Janet S. Wong's This Next New Year. Born and raised in Korea, she now divides her time between New York and Seoul.