Barry's Best Buddy

Renée French lives in California with her husband Rob in a beige-colored house. The best birthday present she got as a child was a giant box of art supplies as big as her body. Growing up, she would play hooky from school in order to lie on the couch all day and draw—which, in fact, is exactly what she does all day long now. Renowned as the author of many books of comics for both adults and children (including H Day, Micrographia, and The Ticking), she’s been nominated for best artist by the Eisner, Harvey, and Ignatz Awards.

Comics creator French, who has written and illustrated two picture books as Rainy Dohaney, presents an offbeat story of misdirection, generosity, and opposites-attract friendship...French’s sharp, pared-down dialogue easily establishes the friends’ personalities and provides many moments of humor.—Publishers WeeklyThe needs and nuances of children’s literature are well represented, as echoes of Arnold Lobel’s Frog and Toad books find their way into the slightly morose Barry and his upbeat pal, and friendship and cooperation are the key themes here...Yet another winner from TOON.—BooklistWith its sophisticated look and easily decodable blend of art and text, this friendship story should win early readers looking to conquer something on their own.—Bulletin of the Center for Children's BooksThis funny story has plenty of jokes to keep reluctant readers’ interest. A few higher vocabulary words like “tragedy,” “bliss,” and “decorate” are sprinkled throughout and add to the richness of this excellent little comic book. The whimsical artwork adds subtle humor to the story.—School Library Journal