There are plenty of picture books about best friends moving away and they follow a similar pattern—shock, sadness, adjustment, and, finally, finding a new friend. This book has all of that with an added twist: Maia’s best friend, Nico, returns after a year away and things are different. “Maia thought she’d be happy but instead she’s worried. Her life has become so full. Will there be room for, Nico too?” The simple, straightforward narrative focuses on Maia’s emotional responses to Nico’s departure and return, while expressionistic illustrations perfectly capture the tone. (Ages 4–8)