Just Like Millie

By Author / Illustrator

Lauren Castillo

Genre

Mental Health & Wellbeing

Age range(s)

Publisher

Walker Books

ISBN

9781529522112

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

01-08-2024

Synopsis

In a gentle story from Caldecott Honoree Lauren Castillo, a shy young girl finds exploring her new city and making friends overwhelming - until a rescue dog helps her uncover the bravery that was always in her.

A young girl and her mother move to an apartment in a new city. Despite her mum's efforts to take her out, the girl would rather play by herself in their cosy home - she feels just fine on her own. Meeting any children her age has her hiding behind her mother's legs, and invitations to group activities has her in tears. That is, until she meets Millie, a rescue dog who is not too big, not too small, and kisses her arm when the girl nervously reaches out. With Millie, saying hello to new people isn't so scary, and maybe making a friend isn't either.

Through emotionally honest prose and soft, expressive illustrations, Lauren Castillo explores one girl's shyness and anxiety - and how one dog's love helps her open up - in a warm picture book that reminds readers of how the right companion can make the world feel like a less frightening place.

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Reviews

Just like Millie will melt your heart and is a beautiful book about friendship, courage and love. In this book we meet a shy, quiet girl and her mum who move into a new home. This transition is difficult for the young girl who is struggling to make friends and adjust to her new way of life. Mum realises this and has a surprise for her worried daughter... a new friend, a cannine friend called Millie.

Millie is welcomed into their new home and we see a wonderful friendship and relationship between the family grow which helps the little girl develop relationships in the new area she now lives in and helps her to make friends.

This book encourages children to think about different family units, empathy and how animals can support well-being. The text and illustrations in this book guide the story and the messages so well and you will definitely want a 'Millie' in your life too!

Picture book / Reviewed by Maria, teacher