Big changes can be scary, especially for little ones. It could be moving to a new home, starting school, or missing a friend, but those early changes all seem to precipitate worry, uncertainty, and even a few tears. Rodney’s Big Move: A Spruce Hollow Tale by Cheryl Farnsworth is a warm, well-written children’s book that guides young ones through these tear-filled experiences in a funny, nurturing, and understanding way.
Moving to a New Home? Rodney Gets It.
In Rodney’s Big Move, children greet Rodney, a silly little boy who is nervous about changes, particularly about moving to a new home and having to say goodbye to his best friend, Sam. What most children are concerned about when going away from home is Rodney’s: What if he doesn’t like it there? What if school is boring? What if he never makes a new friend?
The book opens on moving day, with Rodney feeling a whirlwind of emotions. He misses a friend, is not sure what comes next, and is already fearing what he imagines school will be like. This candid glimpse at a child’s inner monologue makes Rodney’s Big Move wonderfully accessible to families who are making a transition.
Starting School Doesn’t Have to Be Scary
Perhaps one of the largest worries for children who are relocating to a new residence is beginning school in an unknown environment. Rodney envisions a classroom of rules, lima beans for lunch, and no enjoyment whatsoever. However, once he actually enters his new kindergarten, all of that changes. Rodney’s teacher, the warm and odd-looking Mr. Foxden, welcomes him with open arms, and the classroom is a riot of color, books, toys, and smiling faces.
Rodney will find out later that attending school is not as scary as he thought. It’s actually full of new adventures and lots of chuckles. The book makes kids feel safe knowing they’re not the only ones who are afraid, and that going to school can be an amazing adventure.
Making Friends (Even When You’re Nervous About Changes)
One important message of Rodney’s Big Move is that it does take courage to make friends, but it is definitely possible even when being scared of changes. With a fun classroom activity known as “Me Too Meet-Up,” Rodney discovers he has things in common with his new peers. With ice cream, soccer, or being a great storyteller, Rodney finds he has much in common with many other children.
By the end of his first day, Rodney is no longer just missing a friend, he’s gaining new ones, too. His connection with Seth, a fellow strawberry ice cream lover, is a beautiful reminder that friendship can bloom in the most unexpected places.
A Must-Read for Families Going Through Transitions
If your child is moving to a new home, starting school, or simply nervous about changes, Rodney’s Big Move – A Spruce Hollow Tale offers gentle reassurance, emotional connection, and lots of heart. With its relatable story and comforting tone, this book is the perfect way to open up conversations about change and help kids feel excited about the future, even when they’re saying goodbye to the past.
