The Boy with Flowers in His Hair

Praise

Accompanied by beautiful, uncluttered digital images against lots of white space, Jarvis’ simple, gentle story gives adults room to explain David’s hardship to young readers in their own ways. . . . A sweet example of how to be a kind and supportive presence in the life of a struggling friend.

—Kirkus Reviews

This tender story about emotions made manifest could help children talk about trauma and recognize its effects on themselves and others.
—Booklist

Beautifully conveys from a child’s perspective the adaptability and acceptance of a child facing hardship. . . this heartfelt demonstration of compassion is fantastic and realistic in equal measure.
—School Library Journal

Keeping the focus on one child’s sudden change and the narrator’s willingness to help, Jarvis crafts an extended metaphor about how good friends can share the burden of bad times.
—Publishers Weekly

A simple yet powerful story about the importance of having a good friend to help during difficult times, . . . an effective tool for navigating complicated feelings with young readers. . . . a valuable resource for teachers, caregivers, and guidance counselors.
—School Library Connection

The story — so simple and stark, illustrated with beautiful washes of color — says so much about kindness, friendship, acceptance and being there for friends suffering something difficult, without a single wasted word. It ends in a simple, dreamlike embrace between two best friends, one covered in blossoms, both smiling.
—The Virginian Pilot