My Last Best Friend by Julie Bowe

Published by Harcourt Inc
Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books

Beginning a new school year is not the easiest time for anyone and for Ida May it's more difficult still. Her best friend has moved away and she has spent part of the school holidays being pushed into a new friendship, by her mother. A new friend might not seem like such a terrible thing, and after all Jenna is the daughter of the President of the PTA. It's a pity she is also the meanest, most bossy and disliked person in Ida's class.

When a mysterious new girl called Stacey Merriweather joins the school, Ida can't help but like her. Stacey smiles constantly and shows kindness towards everyone, even to the bossy Jenna. Ida is determined that she can't allow herself to have another friend ever again but will her heart agree?

My Last Best Friend is a truly beautiful and heartwarming tale about the trials and complications of love and friendship. It captures childhood years perfectly and when I read it, I found myself feeling light and carefree as my inner child remembered the joy of youth. The characters are extremely vivid and easy to connect with while the story is written in a way that will capture the interest of any young girl.

A fun, quick, and entertaining read for ages 7 to 10. I was delighted when I got to the end of the book and saw a sneak peek of the next title 'My New Best Friend'. I can hardly wait to see what happens next for Ida and Stacey and I am sure that after you and your child read this book, you will feel the same way.

On a more personal note.. As a military wife I know all too well how much of a struggle it can be to relocate on a regular basis. When doing so with children, it's an added strain as they try and deal with loss, new schools etc. This book is an especially great gift idea for children in the military lifestyle.

Author's website: http://www.juliebowe.com/