The Long Ride Home

PreS-Gr 1–Little Koala and Little Cheetah are best friends. But Cheetah has moved away. On a long car trip through town, Koala remembers all the joy and fun and companionship that was shared between them: trips to the beach, reading books, and playing games; they shared stories and laughter, and planned a future where they would live side by side. These two thought they would always be together—but change happens. Koala is sad, but the friendship remains by writing letters recounting their good times together. Colorful illustrations enhance this quiet work and send the message that physical presence is not necessary to a lasting friendship. With simplicity that pointedly uses experiences and a landscape that very young children will understand and relate to, this story emerges as a very useful work for children facing separation from friends or family.