For little children, a change in residence may seem like the end of the world. Mix in starting school, finding friends, and missing a friend, and no wonder that youngsters do feel apprehensive and nervous about change. Rodney’s Big Move: A Spruce Hollow Tale by Cheryl Farnsworth is the ideal book to guide kids through these feelings and understand that change can result in new adventures, friends, and self-growth.
This delightful picture book chronicles Rodney, a gentle and creative young boy, as he begins a new part of life. His adventure is one that will touch the hearts of families and children everywhere.
Moving to a New Home: Rodney’s Bittersweet Goodbye
When Rodney wakes up to the sight of a moving truck in front of his home, he knows things can never be the same again. His family is moving to a new home in Spruce Hollow, a new town that he’s never experienced and where everything remains a mystery. But whereas excitement is bubbling up in the grown-ups, Rodney harbors something different: sadness, confusion, and anxiety.
He’s losing a friend, his best friend Sam, and is wondering if he’ll ever be happy again. Through Rodney’s genuine feelings, the story legitimizes a child’s fear of leaving their old home, reassuring that it is normal to feel pulled between clenching and letting go.
Starting School and Feeling Nervous About Changes
To make things even more stressful, Rodney is also starting school for the first time. He imagines strict rules, boring lessons, and the horror of having to eat lima beans. As with most children, Rodney is apprehensive and nervous about change and not sure whether he will be accepted.
But when kindergarten orientation comes, Rodney is pleasantly surprised. His new teacher, Mr. Foxden, a wise, warm fox, greets him with a friendly smile. The room is bright and lively, full of books, toys, art materials, and the feeling of magic that makes Rodney feel comfortable. Gradually, the apprehension about going to school disappears and gives way to interest and eagerness.
Making Friends While Missing a Friend
Throughout the story, Rodney continues missing a friend and writes heartfelt letters to Sam about his new experiences. But he’s also beginning to open up to the idea of making friends in Spruce Hollow.
A class activity called “Me Too Meet-Up” encourages kids to connect based on shared interests. Rodney learns that other kids love strawberry ice cream, soccer, swimming, and even piggyback rides, just like him. He bonds with a new classmate named Seth, and realizes that making friends doesn’t mean forgetting old ones.
A Must-Read for Children Facing Big Life Transitions
Rodney’s Big Move: A Spruce Hollow Tale is a tender, funny, and uplifting story that speaks directly to children who are moving to a new home, starting school, making friends, or nervous about changes. With beautiful illustrations and relatable emotions, Cheryl Farnsworth’s story offers comfort, encouragement, and hope.
Whether your child is heading off to school or saying goodbye to a beloved neighborhood, this book is the perfect way to start a meaningful conversation and ease the transition with empathy and heart
