"Henry Hodges Needs a Friend" by Andy Andrews and illustrated by Colleen Madden is dedicated to a children's librarian. It is easy to see why. Henry Hodges is lonely and bored. He has no nearby friends. His parents, noticing Henry's unhappiness, decide to let him choose a one-of-a-kind pet. Discussing Henry's plight lends itself to many learning experiences. A young listener can try to predict what pet Henry will choose. Some very funny pets are imagined by Henry. The book is written in rhyme. Rhyming words like meet-street and swing-bring populate every page of this beautifully illustrated book. Many opportunities exist for parent/teacher exchange of ideas with young children.

Thank you Thomas Nelson: CHILDREN'S and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book! A great story of friendship and the love of a pet. Every boy needs a dog!

A top-notch five star illustrated children's book. This one left me feeling all warm and fuzzy. It's bright and colourful and the illustrations are delightful!

Henry is lonely and has no friends. He's a sad boy. His parents tell him they are getting him a new friend who is a bit different and unique just like himself. Henry begins imagining animals like a cat that meows, a cool purple fox, a cow that gives chocolate milk or a porcupine with soft quills..

Off they go to the animal shelter (I love that it's a rescue pet they look for, that can open up good conversation). Henry finds the cutest but loneliest puppy in the place and has a new friend!

We see much joy with Henry and his new pup spending time together, it's really heart-warming this book. It's rhyming text on each page but it's rhyme that's done well, I read the book you see, so this I can tell.

Some pages are just illustrations and the pictures speak volumes. Very expressive. It's a lovely message that no matter how lonely or different you are someone will always choose to be your friend. This book will make children want to have a pet. Lovely. One of the best children's books I've read.