Meesha loves making things …
but there's one thing she finds difficult to make – friends. She doesn't know quite what to do, what to say or when to say it, and she struggles reading and responding to social cues. But one day she discovers that she has a special talent that will help her to navigate challenging social situations and help her to make friends.
A warm and affectionate look at the joys and difficulties of making and keeping friends, relating to others, and finding your place in the world. Wonderfully empowering and emotionally resonant, Tom Percival's Big Bright Feelings series is the perfect springboard for conversations about mental and emotional health, positive self-image, building self-confidence and managing feelings. Every child's bookshelf should contain his books.
About the Author
Tom Percival is a writer, artist, video producer and musician. Meesha Makes Friends is Tom's ninth picture book for Bloomsbury, following Herman's Letter, Herman's Holiday, Bubble Trouble, By the Light of the Moon, Perfectly Norman, Goat's Coat (illustrated by Christine Pym), Ruby's Worry and Ravi's Roar. Tom lives in Stroud with his partner and their two young children.
Industry Reviews
An absolute darling of a book. Its portrayal of children who find it hard to communicate, or have specific interests that are puzzling to others, is kind, sensitive and warming. So many books assume that young children are gregarious and find socialising easy whereas many, just like Meesha, find it baffling and confusing... a must for every classroom and a favourite for quieter children everywhere -- Caryl Hart * Discover Children's Books *
Meesha really can make anything. She will make you appreciate how great it is to just be yourself; she will make you understand that you don't need to force a friendship. Meesha will make you happy, Meesha will you make smile. Meesha will make you fall in love with just being you * James Sinclair, Autistic & Unapologetic *
A sweet and uplifting story that celebrates diversity ... and inspires children to dare to be different and have the courage to stand out * BookTrust on PERFECTLY NORMAN *
A joyous, original paean to individuality * Guardian on PERFECTLY NORMAN *
If you need a book that tackles overcoming fears and finding your own rightful place in this world, then this is it * PictureBooksBlogger on RAVI'S ROAR *
If your child has a worry - and all children do have worries - this is the ideal book to encourage them to talk about it * Parents in Touch on RUBY'S WORRY *
This beautifully illustrated book offers a creative way to explore how unaddressed anger can build up and the impact this can have on relationships and social dynamics. * Empathylab on RAVI'S ROAR *
Another fantastic and heart-warming 'Big Bright Feelings' picture book from the storyteller extraordinaire, Tom Percival! ... Beautifully written with striking illustrations that reinforce the story throughout, I am constantly amazed by everything Percival delivers * NetGalley user *
Another beautiful addition to Tom Percival's wonderful collection of stories centring around themes of emotions and mental health for children. Meesha Makes Friends is a heartwarming story about stepping out of your comfort zone and the magic of creativity * NetGalley user *
A book I'll keep returning to over and over again for the beautiful, gentle story and stunning illustrations * NetGalley user *
A wonderful story full of heart and hope, brilliant for those formative years in school where learning to share and make friends is the whole world * NetGalley user *
As ever, Percival's signature style is a joy to behold! Beautifully written with striking illustrations that reinforce the story throughout, I am constantly amazed by everything Percival delivers * Bluebird Reviews *
The story is told with a beautiful simplicity and clarity but the truths that it conveys are important and heartfelt. Meesha has particular problems (adults will realise that she is autistic) but lots of us struggle with shyness and lack of confidence. Her story shows young readers how painful that can be and reassures them that talking, sharing, being honest and trusting others can change things. * Books For Keeps *
