Will You Be My Friend?

Bush Baby's just having no luck finding a friend.

Lonely Bush Baby sets out to find an animal friend. When they appeal to Giraffe, the response is, 'No way. . . . You're much too small. I can hardly see you down there.' Toad doesn't like the fact that Bush Baby has a tail (Toad's vanished long ago). Zebra somehow resists Bush Baby's imploring eyes and says, 'I can't be seen with you. You have no stripes.' Snake thinks Bush Baby has far too many legs. And Flamingo's just rude about Bush Baby's not being pink. Just when despair takes hold and Bush Baby's sure they will always be alone, they meet Lion. Lion is impressed that Bush Baby is talking to him. He reveals he has no friends either: 'Everyone thinks I might eat them for some reason.' Bush Baby is certain Lion won't want to be their friend, but Lion thinks they look just right. The new friends go for a romp. After hearing Lion won't eat friends, the other animals come for friendship . . . and Lion's very loud answer will elicit giggles. Ayto's bright backgrounds and slightly scribbly cartoon animals are a perfect match for his simple story about judging by appearances and valuing differences. Young listeners will be charmed by Bush Baby's big, sad eyes (even if they don't recognize the primate), and many will identify with their search for companionship.

A fine friendship fable with a funny close.—Kirkus Reviews