“In this graphic novel series’ opening installment, best friends Willow and Mia—a bespectacled, introspective dachshund and an artsy, lighthearted French bulldog—navigate small, deeply felt tween dramas… Despite misunderstandings and hurt feelings, this warmly imagined world offers a gentle path toward forgiveness and reconnection. Boldt’s distinctive anthropomorphic characters, an assortment of animals with amusingly random sizes, shapes, and accessories, are beguilingly idiosyncratic, more quirky than cute. Thin outlines, soft pastel washes, and varied perspectives give the world a cozy, handcrafted feel. Sweet, lightly humorous, occasionally just a tad purposeful, this charming, friendship-centered series opener offers relatable social bumps with reassuringly soft landings.”—Booklist
“Author and illustrator Boldt specializes in anthropomorphic animal characters for her fun and entertaining stories. The characters come off as authentic in their feelings and actions, and the artistic design is on the minimalistic side, allowing the emotion of the narrative to shine through… Best shared between friends and family, this graphic novel provides an honest normalcy to growing up and is highly recommended.”–School Library Journal
“Boldt’s animal cast is pervasively adorable, from bespectacled, sibilant Ms. Snake, who heads up a multispecies classroom, to Mia and Willow, who often bike around town with Willow on the handlebars… These pals make plenty of time for ice cream outings, too, which leavens the pathos and angst. A friendship tale that navigates heavy moments with a light touch.”—Kirkus Reviews
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