Big changes can be so scary to little kids, particularly when they’re moving to a new home, starting school, or missing a friend. Mix in feelings of not knowing and no wonder many children get anxious and nervous about changes. That’s where Rodney’s Big Move: A Spruce Hollow Tale by Cheryl Farnsworth shines. This touching picture book is the ideal companion for kids navigating new beginnings and all the feelings that go with them.
With tender telling, down-to-earth characters, and vivid pictures, Rodney’s Big Move encourages children to realize that although change is frightening, it can also bring great and wonderful things.
Moving To A New Home and Missing a Friend
The tale starts with Rodney waking on the big day, his family is relocating to a new house in a town named Spruce Hollow. Instead of happiness, Rodney is overcome with sadness and anxiety. He’s losing a friend, his best friend Sam, and doesn’t know what this new stage has in store.
This section of the book connects strongly with children who are experiencing a similar change. Cheryl Farnsworth conveys the feelings of relocating to a new house with honesty and compassion, letting children know that it’s alright to be sad and unsure. Rodney’s letters to Sam are such a nice way of illustrating to children how to maintain touch with previous friends and adapt to new environments.
Starting School Can Be Scary, But Also Fun
In addition to the move, Rodney is also starting school for the first time. He’s convinced it will be boring, full of rules, and, worst of all, full of lima beans. Like many kids who are nervous about changes, Rodney lets his imagination run wild with worries.
But things quickly shift when Rodney enters his new kindergarten classroom. His teacher, Mr. Foxden, is friendly and warm, and the classroom is full of enjoyable activities, colorful books, and potential for exploration. Rodney discovers that beginning school isn’t necessarily frightening, but rather something to anticipate.
Making Friends, One “Me Too” at a Time
Perhaps the most powerful theme in Rodney’s Big Move is making friends in a new place. Rodney feels shy and uncertain at first, but a classroom activity called “Me Too Meet-Up” helps him discover common interests with his classmates. From strawberry ice cream to soccer and story time, Rodney finds kids who like the same things he does.
The story balances the emotion of missing a friend with the excitement of making friends, reminding young readers that there’s always room in their hearts for new connections.
A Must-Read for Families Facing Change
If your child is moving to a new home, starting school, or feeling nervous about changes, Rodney’s Big Move: A Spruce Hollow Tale is a beautiful, reassuring read. With warmth, humor, and heartfelt lessons, this book shows kids that even when life changes, they have the courage to grow, adapt, and thrive. It’s a perfect addition to any child’s bookshelf, especially during times of transition
