Pajama Press

When Percy finds himself in a classroom full of unfamiliar children, he can’t help but feel uncomfortable and alone—that is, until he meets a cuddly new friend: a plush cat he names Miss Petticomb.

When Percy’s new friend is picked up by other children, Percy cautiously sets out to find her. On his journey to retrieve Miss Petticomb, Percy must decide whether it is better to share his friend with his classmates or keep her all to himself. A plush cat, a tea party, and the uniting power of toys may be the secret to saving Miss Petticomb and bringing Percy out of his shell.

In Percy’s Perfect Friend, early childhood educator Lana Button celebrates the importance of toys in play, the power they have to help children practice social skills, language skills, and imagination, and their ability to bring children together. ALA Schneider Honor Book Winner Peggy Collins captures Percy’s growth from uncertainty to confidence on his quest to save Miss Petticomb. He may just be surprised at the new friends he makes along the way.

Reviews: 

“Button, an early childhood educator, explores a difficult but important skill for children—entering a situation as a newcomer—and shows how imaginative play can lead the way….Bright, expressive, realistic drawings bring to life a diverse group of children….A wonderful example of how to resolve social snafus through the power of play.”—Kirkus Reviews