Best Friends for Frances
Russell Hoben
Frances has spunk. She wants to play with her friend (Albert, a boy - whoops! a badger) but finds out that friends are not always nice. Then Frances discovers she is not always nice either. The person (whoops! badger, these are badgers) who is usually nice is Gloria. And Gloria is her sister! Who knew you could be best friends with your sister!
Animals have a firm place in the value tale tradition. Consider the ancient fables and the traditional folklore from every culture. The Berenstein Bears and Curious George are two of countless contemporary examples. Russell Hoben has created several delightfully instructive tales about Frances.
What's my criteria for the picture book "classics" label? The book was published at least 25 years ago and continues to be republished. And, of course, for this blog, it must also have enduring value as a book that will build virtue, beauty and truth in children.
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