Jessica

Title

Jessica

Author

Kevin Henkes

Type

Junior Picture Fiction

Call Number

JP HEN

ISBN

9780983263302

‘There is no Jessica,’ said Ruthie’s parents. But of course there was. She ate with Ruthie, and was sorry when Ruthie was bad. Nobody could see Jessica – except Ruthie. When it came time for Ruthie to go to school, Jessica went with her. Her parents hoped Ruthie would find a friend at school who would replace Jessica. They were in for a (happy) surprise!

Review

Some children have pretend (or invisible) friends but in Ruthie Simm’s case, Jessica seems almost too real – at least to her parents. True to his usual affirming style, Kevin Henkes quietly empathises with children by illustrating the many situations when a friend, even an invisible one, might be useful. Children will recognise the imaginative fun Ruthie has with Jessica, and the many insecurities she feels, especially when she goes to kindergarten. And through this story, they may be reminded that given time and opportunity, invisible friends will be replaced by real ones who can be just as fun.

Jessica is available at the National Library, find out if Jessica is available at the public library nearest to you.