Two of the newest books about Elephant and Piggie comically convey some common problems in friendships. In I Love My New Toy! Piggie is overjoyed with her new toy, even though she doesn’t know exactly how it works. When Gerald accidentally breaks it, it appears that their friendship might be broken as well. After a friendly squirrel fixes the toy, Gerald and Piggie realize they need some time to play with each other rather than with a toy. Likewise, the pals remember what games they’re good at after an attempt to hide and surprise each other fails in I Will Surprise My Friend! These successful beginning readers by Mo Willems rely on expressive thought balloons and repeated phrases from the enthusiastic duo, Elephant and Piggie. (Ages 4–7)

Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In this title, Gerald and Piggie want to play a game and surprise each other, but the best surprise is the one they least expect.