It’s not easy to become friends with someone who is nothing like you—but surprising things can happen when you give it a try.
Despite the fact that they share a name, Big Bob and Little Bob are different. Big Bob likes trucks and throwing balls and being loud. Little Bob likes dolls and jingling bracelets and being quiet. No matter what they do, they do not do it the same. Could they possibly be friends despite these differences? With humor and tenderness, James Howe and Laura Ellen Anderson beautifully depict the struggles and rewards that come when friendships are forged between different kinds of people.
SELECTION
| 2018 Amelia Bloomer List Recommended Title
The digitally rendered illustrations greatly extend the text, providing readers with examples of how the boys’ play differs...this is a fine choice for very young children who don’t conform to gender stereotypes, and an example for all kids that differences can enrich rather than hinder friendships. —School Library Journal
Friendship transcends gender norms...Free to be Big Bob, Little Bob, and Blossom. —Kirkus Reviews
James Howe is the author of many books for children, including the Bunnicula series and the Misfits series. He is also the author of the Houndsley and Catina books, illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay, as well as Otter and Odder, illustrated by Chris Raschka, and Brontorina, illustrated by Randy Cecil. James Howe lives outside of New York City.
Laura Ellen Anderson is the illustrator of several books for children, as well as the author-illustrator of the graphic novel Evil Emperor Penguin. Laura Ellen Anderson lives in London.
It’s not easy to become friends with someone who is nothing like you—but surprising things can happen when you give it a try.
Despite the fact that they share a name, Big Bob and Little Bob are different. Big Bob likes trucks and throwing balls and being loud. Little Bob likes dolls and jingling bracelets and being quiet. No matter what they do, they do not do it the same. Could they possibly be friends despite these differences? With humor and tenderness, James Howe and Laura Ellen Anderson beautifully depict the struggles and rewards that come when friendships are forged between different kinds of people.
Awards
SELECTION
| 2018 Amelia Bloomer List Recommended Title
Praise
The digitally rendered illustrations greatly extend the text, providing readers with examples of how the boys’ play differs...this is a fine choice for very young children who don’t conform to gender stereotypes, and an example for all kids that differences can enrich rather than hinder friendships. —School Library Journal
Friendship transcends gender norms...Free to be Big Bob, Little Bob, and Blossom. —Kirkus Reviews
Author
James Howe is the author of many books for children, including the Bunnicula series and the Misfits series. He is also the author of the Houndsley and Catina books, illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay, as well as Otter and Odder, illustrated by Chris Raschka, and Brontorina, illustrated by Randy Cecil. James Howe lives outside of New York City.
Laura Ellen Anderson is the illustrator of several books for children, as well as the author-illustrator of the graphic novel Evil Emperor Penguin. Laura Ellen Anderson lives in London.
