Cover of My Friend is Sad by Mo Willems
Recommended

My Friend is Sad

by Mo Willems · · 2007

When Piggie notices Gerald feeling down, she tries a series of creative disguise costumes to bring a smile to her friend's face. Despite her energetic efforts, Gerald only grows more upset until the true reason for his distress is revealed. This humorous early reader highlights how presence and shared companionship are often far more comforting than grand gestures.

Age range
Ages 3–6
Category
Picture Book Favorites
ISBN
70Christian
worldview score

Content ratings

0 means absent, 5 means heavy and central.

Magic0/5
Violence0/5
Language0/5
Romance0/5
Sexual Content0/5
Scary Content0/5
LGBTQ Content0/5
Bad Behavior / Disrespect1/5

Parent notes

This gentle and humorous story provides an excellent opportunity for young children to talk about friendship and empathy. Parents can use Gerald and Piggie's dynamic to teach that being present with loved ones often matters more than trying to fix things with fancy distractions.

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Discussion questions

  1. 1When Piggie discovered Gerald was upset because she was missing all the fun costumes, how did she react to his emotional outburst instead of getting defensive?
  2. 2How does Piggie's desire to be alongside Gerald align with Proverbs 17:17, which reminds us that a loyal friend loves at all times?
  3. 3What was the unexpected outcome when Piggie kept running away to change into new disguises rather than remaining by Gerald's side?
  4. 4Describe how Gerald felt sitting all by himself, and think of someone in your life who might be longing for simple companionship today.

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