Jessica

On the first day of kindergarten, can Ruthie find a new friend?

Jessica has a friend only she can see: Jessica. "There is no Jessica," said Ruthie's parents. But of course there was.

She ate with Ruthie, played with Ruthie, and was sorry when Ruthie was bad. When it came time for Ruthie to go to school, Jessica went with her. Her parents hoped Ruthie would find a friend at school who would replace Jessica. They were in for a (happy) surprise!

"Ruthie's empowering is one that is one that every small child can understand and celebrate." (The Horn Book starred review)

"Totally satisfying." (School Library Journal starred review)

"There is no Jessica," said Ruthie's parents. But of course there was. She ate with Ruthie, played with Ruthie, and was sorry when Ruthie was bad. Nobody could see Jessica -- except Ruthie. When it came time for Ruthie to go to school, Jessica went with her. Her parents hoped Ruthie would find a friend at school who would replace Jessica. They were in for a (happy) surprise!

"Ruthie's empowering is one that is one that every small child can understand and celebrate." - Horn Book (starred review)

"Totally satisfying." - School Library Journal (starred review)

"Jessica, a friend only Ruthie can see, follows Ruthie to school on the first day of kindergarten. Henkes never falters as he outlines the logic and reasoning behind Ruthie's affection for her invisible playmate." - Publishers Weekly