Mommy's New Friend - by Shelley Tougas Hardcover

About the Book

Book Synopsis

Mommy's New Friend is a heartfelt, lyrical story about accepting a new family member, even if it's not easy at first.

When That Guy comes over and makes homemade pizza for dinner, it's not the same as before, when Daddy and Mommy and I would all eat together.

But That Guy takes care of Mommy when she's sick, and That Guy laughs at my jokes.

Maybe, That Guy isn't that bad, after all.

Shelley Tougas and award-winning illustrator Sara Palacios' Mommy's New Friend is a gentle and uplifting tale about growing up, learning new perspectives, and accepting how blended families can evolve and expand.

Review Quotes

A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year

"[A] lighthearted exploration of a parent's bonding with a new partner. With patience and humor..."That Guy" becomes a beloved member of the family." -- Publishers Weekly

"An ideal book for families...to show children that while it's OK to feel a range of emotions, it's also important to make room for new family members. A thoughtful portrayal of family." -- Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Shelley Tougas writes fiction and nonfiction for kids, including the award-winning titles Little Rock Girl 1957, Laura Ingalls is Ruining My Life, and A Patron Saint for Junior Bridesmaids. Mommy's New Friend is her first picture book. Shelley also works at a library where she actually gets paid to read books to kids, host teddy-bear brunches, create book-character crafts, and play hide-and-seek. It's the best job in the world.

Sara Palacios is the illustrator of many books for children. She is also the recipient of the Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor for her work on Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match and the Américas Award for Between Us and Abuela. She earned her BFA and MFA degrees in illustration from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.