Hot Day on Abbott Avenue

It's the hottest, stickiest day of the summer. A fat-sun-in-the-sky day. An eating-ice-pops-on-the-porch day. And for Kishi and Renée, it's a best-friends-breakup day. Each girl sits on her own front porch, waiting for the other to apologize, even though they know they'll never speak to each other again, no matter how bored they get. But then the sounds of feet slapping the pavement and voices chanting double-dutch rhymes drift up the avenue, and neither one can resist going out in the street to play.

This lyrical friendship story, the first collaboration of two outstanding artists, pairs a rhythmic text with distinctive collage illustrations. Its subtle message about sharing and forgiveness will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the ups and downs of being, and having, a best friend.

"English has childhood spats down pat...both original and emotionally effective...full of movement and energy and joy...'So good!' "

- Kirkus Reviews

"audiences will sympathize with the falling-out-with-a-friend blues even as they long for their own blue popsicles"

"High-energy collage illustrations...a satisfying summer story about community and friendship."

- Horn Book Magazine

"Innovative illustrations add depth and texture to an evocative text." - School Library Journal (starred review)

"English's story is engaging...Steptoe's stunning, mixed-media illustrations make the boar soar." - Booklist