Little Merlin the owl is so eager to make friends and tell them all about himself, that he neglects to think about what they want. After a few false starts with no success, he decides he will give up - after all, who really needs friends? Fortunately, though, Merlin then meets someone who is good at making friends. Who shows him that friendship is a fun give-and-take. Young children experiencing the ups and downs of first friendships will relate to Merlin's plight and enjoy his funny friend-making tips - and even grown-ups will appreciate the gentle reminders to "share your worms" and "listen as much as you squawk!"

About the Author
Jia Liu (jia-liu.com) has illustrated numerous picture books, including Bugs in Danger (by Mark Kurlansky), Bedtime for Beasties (by Leslie Staub), Terrific Tongues! (by Maria Gianferrari), the Arithmechicks series (by Ann Marie Stephens), and the What Shapes Our Earth? series (by Nadia Higgins). Who Needs Friends? is her first book as both author and illustrator. She works with many different media and enjoys bringing playfulness and humor into her work. She also teaches art at the Maryland Institute College of Art and Towson University.

Reviews
"Will arouse empathy and is worth sharing with youngsters spreading their own wings and feeling uncertain about developing social relationships. The guide to making friends at the end of the book will reassure children as well. The illustrations, rendered in ink, colored pencil, and digital collage, are bright, lively, and expressive; Merlin is a feisty character. Whoo needs friends? Tips from this owl protagonist may help children learn how to make them." -Kirkus Reviews



Book Information
ISBN 9781984813695
Author Jia Liu
Format Hardback
Page Count 32
Imprint G.P.Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers'
Publisher Penguin Putnam Inc
Weight(grams) 352g
Dimensions(mm) 262mm * 216mm * 9mm