Change may be difficult, particularly for little children. Whether it’s a move to a new house, beginning school for the very first time, or leaving loved ones behind, great changes often have great feelings involved. Rodney’s Big Move: A Spruce Hollow Tale by Cheryl Farnsworth is a sweet children’s book that politely walks readers through these experiences from the perspective of a sweet little boy named Rodney. It’s a must-read for every family supporting their child through the twists and turns of change.
Moving to a New Home: Rodney’s Journey Begins
The book opens with Rodney waking up to a moving truck parked in his driveway. He, his family, and he are off to a new home in the picturesque town of Spruce Hollow. But although Spruce Hollow is idyllic, Rodney isn’t so convinced about leaving life as he knows it behind. As with most kids, he’s griping about missing a friend, his best buddy Sam, and is anxious about changes on the horizon. This universal story assists children in working through their own feelings regarding moving and realizing that it’s normal to feel a combination of happiness and sadness.
Starting School: From Fear to Fun
One of Rodney’s biggest concerns about moving to a new home is that he’ll be starting school in an unfamiliar place. He imagines strict teachers, long lines, and worst of all, lima beans for lunch! Cheryl Farnsworth does a brilliant job of capturing a child’s fears about starting school, while also showing how those fears can quickly turn into fun. Rodney soon finds out that school isn’t scary at all. His teacher, Mr. Foxden, is kind and welcoming, and the classroom is filled with books, blocks, and creative play spaces.
Making Friends in a Brand-New Town
One of the highlights of Rodney’s Big Move is the heartwarming way it tackles the challenge of making friends. Rodney is initially alone, but through interactive classroom sessions such as “Me Too Meet-Up,” he starts finding some commonalities with his new peers. From a common liking for strawberry ice cream or soccer, Rodney understands that making friends is not as difficult as he believed, even when one is apprehensive of changes.
Missing a Friend While Finding New Joys
Rodney’s story doesn’t shy away from the emotional side of missing a friend. Throughout the book, Rodney writes letters to Sam, sharing his new experiences and keeping their bond alive. This theme reinforces that while moving to a new home can mean big changes, it doesn’t mean letting go of old friendships. It’s a powerful message for kids who are facing transitions of their own.
A Comforting Book for Any Child Facing Change
Rodney’s Big Move – A Spruce Hollow Tale is a gentle, encouraging story that offers comfort to children who are moving to a new home, starting school, making friends, or feeling nervous about changes in their lives. With its sweet illustrations and thoughtful storytelling, this book is a valuable addition to any child’s library, and a reassuring companion for the journey ahead.
