The Friend Ship

In The Friend Ship by Kat Yeh, a lonely hedgehog overhears others say that “friendship is out there.” So, she builds a boat to go searching for the “friend ship.” As she searches unsuccessfully, she encounters a variety of animals who all agree to come aboard and join the hunt. Hedgehog is ready to give up, but is encouraged by her shipmates to keep looking.

The story offers an unexpected twist at the end, rather than the obvious ending that Hedgehog now shares friendship with all the other animals. Young readers will likely enjoy coming to the conclusion for themselves. Parents will appreciate the theme that friendship is often right under your nose.

The illustrations by Chuck Groenink are superb. They are reminiscent of a blend of Lauren Castillo and Jon Klassen’s art. And that is high praise. The illustration of the Japanese dog could be framed and proudly displayed in my home. The illustrations support the text beautifully.