Yellow-beaked avian protagonist Immy warmly greets a series of animalian friends in van Gageldonk’s congenial board book. Cheerful openness imbues each encounter, as described across simple text and companionable dialogue: “The caterpillar climbs on top of a leaf and stretches. ‘Would you like a little kiss, Immy?’ the caterpillar kindly asks. Immy would love that!” Thickly outlined in black, simply drawn subjects stand out against outdoor backdrops adorned with sparse inky detailing. Immy’s dot-like eyes, upturned mouth, and basic body language convey the tender comfort the figure seems to feel among creaturely pals; spying a bird, Immy raises an orange-tipped wing in greeting. A concluding moonlit moment shifts into bedtime territory when Immy leans against an elephant to rest—a fitting close to a cordial story that frames life in friendly terms.

– Publishers Weekly

One of the many anxieties of childhood, for both kids and their grown-ups, is making friends. With this title, even the tiniest tot can start learning how to make friends through accepting others and creating lasting connections. Immy the bird goes through their world interacting with the other animals. The narrative demonstrates straightforward ways to move around the world in a kindly manner. Say hello. Be encouraging. Listen to others. This story’s success is in its simplicity. Nothing overly complicated. Sentences are short and to the point. Illustrations are scrawled lines, creating the impression of snails and dogs without getting too lost in details. VERDICT This book is pared down, to the point, and laser focused on friendship basics for the youngest readers.

– School Library Journal