Age: Preschool - 1st grade

"While out foraging for interesting things, Vernon the toad finds a new friend - a small blue bird who is curiously silent. Vernon shows Bird the river and the forest and some of his other favorite things, but Bird says nothing. Vernon introduces Bird to his friends, Skunk and Porcupine, but Bird still says nothing. "Bird is shy," says Vernon, "but also a very good listener." Vernon worries that Bird is silent because he misses his home, so the two set off on a journey to help find a home for Bird" (Goodreads feature review).

A genuine and heartfelt friendship. There is no real reason for Vernon to befriend the silent bird nor is there a reason to find him a place where he can feel happy. But he does anyways. Adorable and great for storytime.