That's What Friends are For by Valeri Gorbachev

32 p., Philomel, 2005. Being a good friend means caring about your friend, being willing to help, and maybe most of all, being empathic. In this sweet, funny story, Goat wakes up one morning, excited to be having dinner at his friend Pig's house that night. But he sees that Pig is in tears. He imagines all sorts of terrible things that might have happened, and thinks about how he'll help Pig in each of the situations he's imagined. For example, if Pig has fallen and broken his leg, he'll play chess with him every day to help him forget how much pain he's in. Finally, Goat can't stand worrying any longer, and he goes to Pig's house, equipped to help with all of the disasters on his mind. Pig is still in tears - and asks Goat to help him chop onions! Goat happily agrees, and is soon crying right along with Pig. With its lively ink and watercolor illustrations, this story not only conveys a wonderfully warm perspective on friendship, but also delivers an important message about worrying. Ages 3-6