The Last Day Julian Was My Best Friend by Jody Jensen Shaffer (review)

Reviewed by: The Last Day Julian Was My Best Friend by Jody Jensen Shaffer Kara Forde Shaffer, Jody Jensen The Last Day Julian Was My Best Friend; illus. by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff. Two Lions, 2024 32p Trade ed. ISBN 9781662516160 17. 99 Reviewed from digital galleys R 4-8 yrs Anthony's best friend Julian was thrilled to share the excitement around the present he received from his grandpa, a red marble. For months the two played with the marble everywhere, until the day it went missing. Anthony's first-person narration heightens the story's tension by consistently describing the day after the marble's disappearance as "the last day Julian was my best friend. " The itinerary of said day is ideal but marred by Julian's apprehension; the two neighbors make pancakes for breakfast, ride bikes to the beach, and have a backyard campout. Finally, at the end of the day, while tucked in their sleeping bags, Anthony confesses his role in the marble's disappearance. Shaffer examines an infrequently addressed childhood experience in children's literature: stealing toys from friends. Digitally immersed young readers might not relate to the perceived value of a marble as a toy, per se, but the message is nonetheless effective. Anthony's guilt is tangible, evident in his slouched posture and dour facial expressions as he sees the effects of the marble's loss on his friend. He knows that he must disclose what he has done but believes that it must mean the friendship will end, too. 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. Copyright © 2024 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois