Review: When Friendship Followed Me Home

 

 When Friendship Followed Me Home by Paul Griffin

I must have read a review of this somewhere, I can’t think of why I picked it up.  I am so glad I did.  This is a just-right middle grade novel.

Ben Coffin has had his share of hard times in life by the time he meets a little dog looking for a home.  This might sound like a cliche opening but the novel has a lot more going for it.  Ben is an adopted child – living in foster care for his first decade.  No terrible stories from his past, just a huge sense of impermanence.

 

As the book open Ben is in his forever home with a loving mother.  She welcomes the dog and they make every effort to find it’s home.  As it turns out, Flip has entered Ben’s life at a time when he will need him most.

 

I’d call this a three tissue story – it’s as heartbreaking as it is heartwarming.  Ben learns the true meaning of friendship and family with Flip at his side.  Fans of Jacqueline Woodson will love the many references to her lovely book Feathers.

 

Source:  public library hardcover

Audience:  grades 6-8