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When Friendship Followed Me Home
A boy’s chance encounter with a scruffy dog leads to an unforgettable friendship in this deeply moving story about life, loss, and the meaning of family
Ben Coffin has never felt like he fits in. A former foster kid, he keeps his head down at school to avoid bullies and spends his afternoons reading sci-fi books at the library. But that all changes when he finds a scruffy abandoned dog named Flip and befriends the librarian’s daughter, Halley. For the first time, Ben starts to feel like he belongs in his own life. Then, everything changes, and suddenly, Ben is more alone than ever. But with a little help from Halley’s magician father, Ben discovers his place in the world and learns to see his own magic through others’ eyes.
Equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming, this book is a must-read for dog lovers and fans of emotionally resonant middle grade novels like One for the Murphys and Okay for Now.
Ben Coffin has never felt like he fits in. A former foster kid, he keeps his head down at school to avoid bullies and spends his afternoons reading sci-fi books at the library. But that all changes when he finds a scruffy abandoned dog named Flip and befriends the librarian’s daughter, Halley. For the first time, Ben starts to feel like he belongs in his own life. Then, everything changes, and suddenly, Ben is more alone than ever. But with a little help from Halley’s magician father, Ben discovers his place in the world and learns to see his own magic through others’ eyes.
Equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming, this book is a must-read for dog lovers and fans of emotionally resonant middle grade novels like One for the Murphys and Okay for Now.
240 pages, Unknown Binding
First published June 7, 2016
201 people are currently reading
4008 people want to read
About the author
Paul Griffin
230 books266 followersPaul Griffin lives, writes, and trains dogs in New York City. His previous novel, The Orange Houses, was an ALA Best Book for Young Adults Top Ten, an International Reading Association 2010 Notable Book for a Global Society, a Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Book of 2009, and an Amelia Bloomer Project Award winner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 773 reviews
July 3, 2017
When Friendship Followed Me Home is an incredibly poignant yet beautiful middle grade read that proves even in the darkest moments throughout our lives, someone is always willing to leave the light on.
From the first instance readers are introduced to Ben, you can feel how remarkable this young man is. He's only twelve, but such an old soul who now feels a sense of family thanks to Tess, a kindhearted speech therapist who adopted Ben two years prior. Their relationship was breathtakingly beautiful, so when their cosy little family of two soon became three, I was so emotionally overwhelmed and placed my faith in that When Friendship Followed Me Home wouldn't destroy me.
But it did, and I loved each and every moment.
Ben is compassionate and sensitive young man who not only is the target of an aggressive school bully, but is hesitant to form friendships as he and Tess plan to move to Florida shortly. So Ben spends his free time nestled within bookshelves at the library with Mrs Lorentz to keep him company. It's there where he discovers Halley her daughter, a girl with a bright personality, warm and wonderfully written, who is determined to fight her diagnosis.
The newly named Flip was a pure delight. A small, neglected dog who desperately deserved a forever home. Flip is cared for, loved and soon becomes apparent that Ben has become his world while charming everyone within his orbit. With his intellect and wonderful nature, Ben begins training Flip as an assistance dog for a children's reading program, in which children read to the loving little dog without judgement and building their confidence.
Then Ben's world is torn apart.
My heart ached and found myself distraught on Ben's behalf. I was so deeply invested in his character, that on several occasions I could barely read through my tears. The one constant throughout the book is Flip, Ben and his friendship with Halley, who are writing a fantastical novella together to cherish all the people who are in their lives and inspired by her librarian mother and father, who is a magician and illusionist.
As charming and enchanting as When Friendship Followed Me Home is, it's also absolutely heartbreaking and one of the most poignant reads you'll ever have the pleasure of experiencing. It's utterly lovely, yet explores issues of abandonment, domestic violence, homelessness, illness, grief and socioeconomic diversity. It was utterly beautiful and has stayed with me long after the final page was turned.
http://www.divabooknerd.com/2016/06/w...
From the first instance readers are introduced to Ben, you can feel how remarkable this young man is. He's only twelve, but such an old soul who now feels a sense of family thanks to Tess, a kindhearted speech therapist who adopted Ben two years prior. Their relationship was breathtakingly beautiful, so when their cosy little family of two soon became three, I was so emotionally overwhelmed and placed my faith in that When Friendship Followed Me Home wouldn't destroy me.
But it did, and I loved each and every moment.
Ben is compassionate and sensitive young man who not only is the target of an aggressive school bully, but is hesitant to form friendships as he and Tess plan to move to Florida shortly. So Ben spends his free time nestled within bookshelves at the library with Mrs Lorentz to keep him company. It's there where he discovers Halley her daughter, a girl with a bright personality, warm and wonderfully written, who is determined to fight her diagnosis.
The newly named Flip was a pure delight. A small, neglected dog who desperately deserved a forever home. Flip is cared for, loved and soon becomes apparent that Ben has become his world while charming everyone within his orbit. With his intellect and wonderful nature, Ben begins training Flip as an assistance dog for a children's reading program, in which children read to the loving little dog without judgement and building their confidence.
Then Ben's world is torn apart.
My heart ached and found myself distraught on Ben's behalf. I was so deeply invested in his character, that on several occasions I could barely read through my tears. The one constant throughout the book is Flip, Ben and his friendship with Halley, who are writing a fantastical novella together to cherish all the people who are in their lives and inspired by her librarian mother and father, who is a magician and illusionist.
As charming and enchanting as When Friendship Followed Me Home is, it's also absolutely heartbreaking and one of the most poignant reads you'll ever have the pleasure of experiencing. It's utterly lovely, yet explores issues of abandonment, domestic violence, homelessness, illness, grief and socioeconomic diversity. It was utterly beautiful and has stayed with me long after the final page was turned.
http://www.divabooknerd.com/2016/06/w...
July 20, 2025
Porque a Alma Precisa
Estes nossos fiéis amiguinhos de quatro patas são, invariavelmente, musas inspiradoras das mais belas e doces histórias!
Esta é mais uma!!
Leiam!...
Leiam, que a alma agradece ❤️
Estes nossos fiéis amiguinhos de quatro patas são, invariavelmente, musas inspiradoras das mais belas e doces histórias!
Esta é mais uma!!
Leiam!...
Leiam, que a alma agradece ❤️
July 29, 2016
I cannot. How dare this book. I cannot.
I just ugly cried.
This is a slice-of-life book at its finest.
I cannot highly recommend it enough.
I just ugly cried.
This is a slice-of-life book at its finest.
I cannot highly recommend it enough.
February 7, 2017
This beautiful little book makes me want to live the heck out of life!
When Friendship Followed Me Home has it all--family, friends, foster care, cancer, loss, love of reading, lots of Chips Ahoy!s, sci-fi shout-outs, magic, home, and the cutest dog ever!
Our story revolves around Ben Coffin, the biggest hearted boy I’ve seen in a long time. He’s had a tough life, but he doesn’t let it turn his heart to ice or stone. He’s smart, strong, funny, and in need of a friend when Flip follows him home. This little, scruffy dog with very bad breath will wiggle right into your heart and give you a high five! His little heart is just as strong as Ben’s. They truly find a soul mate in each other. Right from the start, you’ll see the trust and faith they have for one another. But my favorite part of Flip and Ben’s friendship is how it opened up their world and hearts to other people. Everyone loved Flip! Those big, sweet, golden eyes just pull you right in! People can’t help but smile around Flip. Even on the subway! :) The world feels bright, hopeful and so full of color when you have a friend at your side. Which leads me to Rainbow Girl…..
Halley, aka Rainbow Girl, is a strong, just-say-what-you-mean girl living and loving to the fullest. She’s sick, but fighting it every step of the way. I loved this girl’s attitude. Strong, loud, funny, and perfect for Ben. They team up on an out of this world adventure—writing, sharing, and reading. They encourage and support each other through some tough times. These kids will remind readers of all ages that the people we love in this world are with us forever. No matter what. I don’t want to spoil the story by saying too much here, but just know that Ben and Halley are two inspirational characters that keep on fighting and smiling and loving through it all. With Flip right there looking for a belly scratch.
One of my favorite parts of this book was how the love of reading was portrayed. The huge love shows up in more ways than one—from the library with a warm, caring
“I walked along row after row of books and dragged my fingertips over the spines. In the twilight I felt the magic in them. They whispered to me, Pick me. Do you want to know an awesome secret?”
Speaking of the writing…Mr. Griffin does a spectacular job of capturing some hard emotions on the page. He often compares an emotion with something everyone can relate to—like the feeling of listening to your favorite song. I thought he did a wonderful job of sharing and explaining the wonder in life along with the hard times for young readers. Everything from finding a new friend to reading a great book to feeling like you don’t have a place to call home.
I hope Ben and Halley and Flip find a home in your heart.
A beautiful book that deserves a *wink* or two of respect. ;) Right, Ben? Haha….
p.s. I love the color of this cover. Saturn blue! It catches your eye.
October 4, 2016
Burned through this book in one sitting and cried continuously for the last 60 pages. A beautiful story about the families we find.
December 15, 2016
Ben coffin is a young boy in middle school who is often bullied for his lunch money and other things. His only escape is through the sci-fi books he reads like Star Wars. After saving a stray dog from a mean alley cat and befriends the librarian's daughter Rainbow Girl Halley, tragedy strikes when his adopted foster mom Tess dies. Ben's world is turned upside down. Will he be able to endure his new home and life without his mom as well as discover the magic of friendship through his new friends? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good and heart-warming book. It is also very sad at times too. This was my first book I have read by Paul Griffin and he did a great job at tearing at my heart-strings with this story of love, and friendship. If you like these types of middle grade YA stories, then be sure to look for this book at your local library and wherever books are sold.
This was a pretty good and heart-warming book. It is also very sad at times too. This was my first book I have read by Paul Griffin and he did a great job at tearing at my heart-strings with this story of love, and friendship. If you like these types of middle grade YA stories, then be sure to look for this book at your local library and wherever books are sold.
July 9, 2016
Ben Coffin was rescued from the orphanage by Tess – she was kind and cool; he was happy to call her Mom. But he was bullied at school – he knew he was different and the only thing that made him happy was reading the science fiction books in the library. Ben had become friendly with the librarian, Mrs Lorentz; she was happy for him to spend time reading.
One afternoon the sense of being followed wouldn’t leave him – the scruffy, uncared for dog looked sad; but when Ben tried to get closer he ran off. That was the beginning of a long friendship between boy and dog; the dog he named Flip. And then the day Ben met Mrs Lorentz’s daughter Halley his happiness was complete. Two best friends – one animal and one a delicate and beautiful rainbow…
But happiness had a way of washing away with the tide – the abrupt changes once again threw Ben completely. Was it his fault? Would Ben find his way in the world? Would a little scruffy dog find the answers for a lost and lonely boy?
When Friendship Followed Me Home is an absolutely delightful book! Magical and heart-warming, the interaction between Flip and his human was wonderful. The story was filled with emotion – sad and heartbreaking, but light hearted and inspirational. I read Adrift by Paul Griffin last year and loved it – I knew I had to read this one as well. A wonderful book; When Friendship Followed Me Home is one I highly recommend. I love the cover; and the title as well :)
With thanks to Text Publishing for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
One afternoon the sense of being followed wouldn’t leave him – the scruffy, uncared for dog looked sad; but when Ben tried to get closer he ran off. That was the beginning of a long friendship between boy and dog; the dog he named Flip. And then the day Ben met Mrs Lorentz’s daughter Halley his happiness was complete. Two best friends – one animal and one a delicate and beautiful rainbow…
But happiness had a way of washing away with the tide – the abrupt changes once again threw Ben completely. Was it his fault? Would Ben find his way in the world? Would a little scruffy dog find the answers for a lost and lonely boy?
When Friendship Followed Me Home is an absolutely delightful book! Magical and heart-warming, the interaction between Flip and his human was wonderful. The story was filled with emotion – sad and heartbreaking, but light hearted and inspirational. I read Adrift by Paul Griffin last year and loved it – I knew I had to read this one as well. A wonderful book; When Friendship Followed Me Home is one I highly recommend. I love the cover; and the title as well :)
With thanks to Text Publishing for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
November 24, 2018
4/5 estrellas.
Precioso, y brillante.
Edito:
Cuando la amistad me acompañó a casa, nos presenta la historia de Ben Coffin, un chico de apenas doce años que nunca fue bueno para hacerse amigos.
Acostumbrado a los orfanatos hasta que finalmente es adoptado, Ben sabe que la gente puede desaparecer de su vida en cualquier momento. E intentando sobrellevar los problemas de bullying en la escuela, prefiere ocupar su tiempo libre hundiendo la nariz en libros de sci-fi en la biblioteca.
Inesperadamente, uno de esos días, se encuentra con un temeroso perrito abandonado, el cual más adelante lo encontrará a él.
Gracias a Flip —el perro—, Ben conoce Halley, quien resplandece en colores, muy diferente a las chicas que está acostumbrado a tratar, y al poco tiempo se percata de que ella lucha contra una enfermedad terminal.
Juntos inician una de las amistades más lindas, en la cual viven una serie de aventuras, que van desde entrenar a Flip para convertirlo en un perro terapéutico, hasta escribir juntos una novela en la que entrelazarán magia, sci-fi y las historias reales de todas las personas que conocen, en especial las de ellos mismos.
Con tantos golpes que le da la vida a su corta edad, ¿podrá Ben sobrellevarlo y creer que, a pesar de todo, hay un “para siempre”?
Pueden leer mi opinión y el resto de la reseña en mi bookstagram: Whenimetabook
Precioso, y brillante.
Edito:
Cuando la amistad me acompañó a casa, nos presenta la historia de Ben Coffin, un chico de apenas doce años que nunca fue bueno para hacerse amigos.
Acostumbrado a los orfanatos hasta que finalmente es adoptado, Ben sabe que la gente puede desaparecer de su vida en cualquier momento. E intentando sobrellevar los problemas de bullying en la escuela, prefiere ocupar su tiempo libre hundiendo la nariz en libros de sci-fi en la biblioteca.
Inesperadamente, uno de esos días, se encuentra con un temeroso perrito abandonado, el cual más adelante lo encontrará a él.
Gracias a Flip —el perro—, Ben conoce Halley, quien resplandece en colores, muy diferente a las chicas que está acostumbrado a tratar, y al poco tiempo se percata de que ella lucha contra una enfermedad terminal.
Juntos inician una de las amistades más lindas, en la cual viven una serie de aventuras, que van desde entrenar a Flip para convertirlo en un perro terapéutico, hasta escribir juntos una novela en la que entrelazarán magia, sci-fi y las historias reales de todas las personas que conocen, en especial las de ellos mismos.
Con tantos golpes que le da la vida a su corta edad, ¿podrá Ben sobrellevarlo y creer que, a pesar de todo, hay un “para siempre”?
Pueden leer mi opinión y el resto de la reseña en mi bookstagram: Whenimetabook
July 23, 2016
all the emotional issues one could imagine thrown into one book, foster child not adopted for all his childhood, by lesbian parents then one dies, then his "mom" dies, goes to live with the "mom's" sister and turns out the boyfriend/husband is recovering alcoholic and abusive makes friends with a wonderful girl who has .... you guessed it cancer! and she dies too...
throw in a cute but abused dog, who's former owner is now homeless... just needed to have some kind of ecological disaster and it would have touched all the politically correct hot item buttons!
too many heart string pulls for my taste
throw in a cute but abused dog, who's former owner is now homeless... just needed to have some kind of ecological disaster and it would have touched all the politically correct hot item buttons!
too many heart string pulls for my taste
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2022
What a wonderful little book!
I don't like how it was started because it felt choppy to me. But it grew on me and it was beautiful!
I don't like how it was started because it felt choppy to me. But it grew on me and it was beautiful!
August 16, 2017
Reseña próximamente...
November 29, 2018
I love this book. I love the characters and I like the humor and how there are all these things happening in his life and his parents and he is able to find a place where he feels like he belongs with Flip and Halley. This book reminds me of the fault in our stars by Jhon Green and it's similarites with that book run through the story. This is a light and moving middle grade novel that covers some hard topics.
It is a touching book with the death of his friend and girlfriend Halley. Halley lived every last second of her life with a smile on her face and a happy spunky personality. She is one of those characters that you fall in love with.
It is a touching book with the death of his friend and girlfriend Halley. Halley lived every last second of her life with a smile on her face and a happy spunky personality. She is one of those characters that you fall in love with.
August 18, 2018
Reseña completa en: http://perdidaentrepaginasymas.blogsp...
La verdad me he sorprendido mucho con lo que encontré dentro de este libro. Me esperaba una historia tierna y muy seguramente triste. Bueno le pegué. Pero el libro va mucho mas allá y trata temas como el bullying, las enfermedades terminales, la adopción, la violencia familiar y muchos mas.
Generalmente el problema de los libros autoconclusivos es que tienen muy pocas páginas para comenzar y acabar una historia, y por lo menos a mi, siempre me pasa que siento que faltaron cosas. Pero en este caso el autor sabe llevarnos con maestría, en solo 250 páginas, a través de la historia de Ben, Halley y la estrella especial de la novela: el adorable Flip.
Las páginas básicamente pasan sin darnos cuenta por nuestras manos debido a la fluidez y la simpleza de la historia y cuando queremos acordar ya lo estamos acabando. Yo lo he leído en sólo 2 días.
¿Qué podemos encontrarnos en la historia?
Primero y principal, mucho amor. Amor por la familia (sea sanguínea o no), amor por los amigos, amor para aquellos que realmente lo necesitan y amor hacia nuestras mascotas. La relación de Ben y su mama adoptiva me recuerda que siempre hay personas de gran corazón aportando su granito de arena para hacer feliz a alguien mas. La relación de Ben con su amiga Halley nos hace ver lo importante de la amistad, esa que esta siempre en las buenas y en las malas, que no duda en tendernos la mano en nuestros momentos mas difíciles, la que nos hace reír y nos acompaña en nuestras locuras. Y la relación de Ben con Flip es ese cariño casi inentendible que sentimos por nuestras mascotas, que pasan a ser uno mas de la familia, nuestros compañeros de aventuras, los únicos que jamas nos juzgan y que siempre siempre están (y lo digo yo, que vivo en un monoambiente de 2x2 y tengo un perro enorme y una gata 😂)
Como digo, este libro lo tiene todo. Diversión, risas, tristezas, amor, superación, fuerza. Cada una de las mini historias de cada personaje nos enseña algo, nos hace ver las cosas de otras manera.
En fin que no me quiero explayar tanto! Es un SI rotundo, muy recomendado y si, aunque es un poco (bastante) triste, no deja un sabor amargo de boca sino mas bien un calorcito en el cuerpo de esas historias que nos llegan al corazón
La verdad me he sorprendido mucho con lo que encontré dentro de este libro. Me esperaba una historia tierna y muy seguramente triste. Bueno le pegué. Pero el libro va mucho mas allá y trata temas como el bullying, las enfermedades terminales, la adopción, la violencia familiar y muchos mas.
Generalmente el problema de los libros autoconclusivos es que tienen muy pocas páginas para comenzar y acabar una historia, y por lo menos a mi, siempre me pasa que siento que faltaron cosas. Pero en este caso el autor sabe llevarnos con maestría, en solo 250 páginas, a través de la historia de Ben, Halley y la estrella especial de la novela: el adorable Flip.
Las páginas básicamente pasan sin darnos cuenta por nuestras manos debido a la fluidez y la simpleza de la historia y cuando queremos acordar ya lo estamos acabando. Yo lo he leído en sólo 2 días.
¿Qué podemos encontrarnos en la historia?
Primero y principal, mucho amor. Amor por la familia (sea sanguínea o no), amor por los amigos, amor para aquellos que realmente lo necesitan y amor hacia nuestras mascotas. La relación de Ben y su mama adoptiva me recuerda que siempre hay personas de gran corazón aportando su granito de arena para hacer feliz a alguien mas. La relación de Ben con su amiga Halley nos hace ver lo importante de la amistad, esa que esta siempre en las buenas y en las malas, que no duda en tendernos la mano en nuestros momentos mas difíciles, la que nos hace reír y nos acompaña en nuestras locuras. Y la relación de Ben con Flip es ese cariño casi inentendible que sentimos por nuestras mascotas, que pasan a ser uno mas de la familia, nuestros compañeros de aventuras, los únicos que jamas nos juzgan y que siempre siempre están (y lo digo yo, que vivo en un monoambiente de 2x2 y tengo un perro enorme y una gata 😂)
Como digo, este libro lo tiene todo. Diversión, risas, tristezas, amor, superación, fuerza. Cada una de las mini historias de cada personaje nos enseña algo, nos hace ver las cosas de otras manera.
En fin que no me quiero explayar tanto! Es un SI rotundo, muy recomendado y si, aunque es un poco (bastante) triste, no deja un sabor amargo de boca sino mas bien un calorcito en el cuerpo de esas historias que nos llegan al corazón
September 5, 2016
Reseña completa en: http://elmarcapaginasbooks.blogspot.c...
Ben es un niño con muchos problemas y una vida difícil, pero aun así, el no pierde la alegría, un día conoce a una niña alocada, apodada ''la niña arcoiris'' por su peculiar forma de vestir tan colorida y extravagante, y junto a ella comienzan una aventura llena de historias y libros.
En una de sus visitas a la bibliotecas, Ben, encuentra un cachorro flaco y con poco pelo que lo comenzó a seguir, y en el acto se hicieron mejores amigos, lo que no sabe nuestro protagonista, es que su pequeño amigo va a ser su sostén en la vida.
Ben y Halley (si, como el cometa) comienzan a escribir historias de ciencia ficción, al estilo de star war, pero al parecer, esas historias tienen mas que ver con ellos de lo que parece.
Una historia tan bien escrita, con personajes tan hermosos y con tantos matices que no podes dejar de leer ni un segundo.
La novela va dirigida, como dije antes, a publico joven, pero se tocan TANTOS temas delicados y profundos que tranquilamente puede ser leída a cualquier edad, el autor aborda temas como la adopción, el bulliyng, la muerte, las enfermedades terminales, el amor, la soledad, la amistad, y hasta me animaría a decir que la homosexualidad, con tanta naturalidad que a veces logran pasar desapercibidas.
Un viaje sobre la vida de un niño, que le toco ser adulto antes de tiempo, pero a las personas buenas a veces, le suceden cosas buenas, y esta no es la excepción, recomendada para todo el mundo, uno de los libros mas lindo que leí en el año.
Ben es un niño con muchos problemas y una vida difícil, pero aun así, el no pierde la alegría, un día conoce a una niña alocada, apodada ''la niña arcoiris'' por su peculiar forma de vestir tan colorida y extravagante, y junto a ella comienzan una aventura llena de historias y libros.
En una de sus visitas a la bibliotecas, Ben, encuentra un cachorro flaco y con poco pelo que lo comenzó a seguir, y en el acto se hicieron mejores amigos, lo que no sabe nuestro protagonista, es que su pequeño amigo va a ser su sostén en la vida.
Ben y Halley (si, como el cometa) comienzan a escribir historias de ciencia ficción, al estilo de star war, pero al parecer, esas historias tienen mas que ver con ellos de lo que parece.
Una historia tan bien escrita, con personajes tan hermosos y con tantos matices que no podes dejar de leer ni un segundo.
La novela va dirigida, como dije antes, a publico joven, pero se tocan TANTOS temas delicados y profundos que tranquilamente puede ser leída a cualquier edad, el autor aborda temas como la adopción, el bulliyng, la muerte, las enfermedades terminales, el amor, la soledad, la amistad, y hasta me animaría a decir que la homosexualidad, con tanta naturalidad que a veces logran pasar desapercibidas.
Un viaje sobre la vida de un niño, que le toco ser adulto antes de tiempo, pero a las personas buenas a veces, le suceden cosas buenas, y esta no es la excepción, recomendada para todo el mundo, uno de los libros mas lindo que leí en el año.
February 27, 2017
It took me far too long to read this lovely book. I kept being distracted by other books along the way, it is a book that needs your uninterrupted attention because it is full of lots of feels and you need to get the full impact of them by devoting undistracted reading time to the story. While it is definitely sad, it is also definitely funny. There are lots of lovely touches - abandoned dog and an abandoned boy, a school librarian who is awesome, a sick girl who is fighting to stay well despite incredible odds, a mum who is gay as well as bereaved and a magician. That isn't the lot by any stretch, the cast of characters is quite something, each of them loveable and quirky.
I think this would be a great read aloud to your class book. There is such a lot going on, but it is gently told and deals with really heavy subjects with a light touch.
I think this would be a great read aloud to your class book. There is such a lot going on, but it is gently told and deals with really heavy subjects with a light touch.
June 16, 2016
My first book I have read by Paul Griffin will not be my last! Paul has a way to make a book unputdownable. When Friendship Followed me Home is a wonderful story filled with voice, deep character growth, life lessons, honesty, and humor.
The main character Coffin and Halley develop an amazing relationship. Together they learn hard lessons and create lasting moments that will never fade.
This book will be great for middle school aged children.
The main character Coffin and Halley develop an amazing relationship. Together they learn hard lessons and create lasting moments that will never fade.
This book will be great for middle school aged children.
July 30, 2016
Me gustó el libro, pero tiene algunas puntos que me gustaría discutir, así que se viene reseña :)
August 23, 2019
Ben has spent his entire life in the foster care system, and is finally in a stable, happy household for the first time. He befriends a stray dog and his favorite librarian's daughter, and everything seems to be looking up. And then, Ben experiences a series of tragic, traumatic events. At times it feels relentless, and as a reader, I was honestly afraid for him. The message of this book is beautiful, but there are many tearful scenes along the way.
April 30, 2019
Rounded up from 3.5. Definitely needed the tissues for the unveiling of the Magic Box, but that should not surprise anyone. There were many elements of this book that I really loved: the friendship between Ben & Halley, the crucial role of the library, the Reading with Rufus program and most definitely Flip. Paul Griffin has a gift for guiding readers through very difficult territory and for showcasing the role of animals in the lives of kids (and adults). These are not fairy tale depictions, either. There are some sad real-life situations that everyone has to deal with including the reader. What I disliked about this book was the intense combination of misfortunes heaped upon Ben. So much tragedy for a 12-year-old. For the reader of that age, it may be difficult to digest all of that.
August 12, 2016
I'M NOT CRYING YOU'RE CRYING.
This beautiful, perfect book...will try to write more when I stop bawling.
But seriously -- if you're feeling lonely or worthless, read this book. Forget that it's "middle grade". It has valuable lessons about friendship and loyalty and love and forgiveness and healing.
This beautiful, perfect book...will try to write more when I stop bawling.
But seriously -- if you're feeling lonely or worthless, read this book. Forget that it's "middle grade". It has valuable lessons about friendship and loyalty and love and forgiveness and healing.
October 20, 2017
I will leave you with my final thought as I finished this book:
THIS IS BULLSHIT!! I AM BOYCOTTING BOOKS FOREVER!! FUCK ALL THESE FEELINGS!!
THIS IS BULLSHIT!! I AM BOYCOTTING BOOKS FOREVER!! FUCK ALL THESE FEELINGS!!
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March 3, 2019How much can friendship change your life?
Former foster kid, Ben found a home with Tess , speech therapist. His life is difficult because of his past, a horrible school bully, and the fact that his family is moving soon. Their family soon becomes three when Ben finds a small, scruffy, dog who he names Flip. Flip changes Ben's life for the better along with the librarians daughter , Halley. Ben finally starts to feel at peace when everything changes and he finds himself alone once more.
When Friendship Followed Me Home was a middle grade novel that simultaneously broke and warmed my heart.
Ben was sensitive, compassionate, but so, so, hesitant to get close to anyone and quite frankly I cannot blame him because of what he has been through. He was such a sweetheart and so smart. The fact that he hung at the library and had a special relationship with his librarian only added to his endearment. The library also allowed him to meet Halley.
Halley, the librarian's daughter was such a powerful force. With her bright personality and style she was just the friendly Ben needed. She was encouraging, smart, and tried her best not to let her diagnosis bully her.
Flip was adorable, small and full of love. I could just feel how much he loved Ben. They had such a special bond. Flip was inspiring, sweet, and had a heart of gold.
Paul Griffin is an excellent author that I truly plan to read more from. He truly captured what it feels like to be so young and go through so much loss. Perfectly blending doses of love and pain, he not only allowed me to feel compassion for Ben, but to also truly feel many different emotions of my own. I found myself wiping tears away while reading this book.
When Friendship Followed Me Home was also a beautiful ode to libraries and reading in general in my opinion. Through Ben, Halley and Flip he showed all the wonderful things reading can do and what books mean to us all. They bring us together, become our friends, give us knowledge and a place to escape, and so, so, so much more.
This book also explores the issues of abandonment, domestic violence, homelessness, illness, grief, and socioeconomic diversity.
When Friendship Followed Me was a true gem.
Former foster kid, Ben found a home with Tess , speech therapist. His life is difficult because of his past, a horrible school bully, and the fact that his family is moving soon. Their family soon becomes three when Ben finds a small, scruffy, dog who he names Flip. Flip changes Ben's life for the better along with the librarians daughter , Halley. Ben finally starts to feel at peace when everything changes and he finds himself alone once more.
When Friendship Followed Me Home was a middle grade novel that simultaneously broke and warmed my heart.
Ben was sensitive, compassionate, but so, so, hesitant to get close to anyone and quite frankly I cannot blame him because of what he has been through. He was such a sweetheart and so smart. The fact that he hung at the library and had a special relationship with his librarian only added to his endearment. The library also allowed him to meet Halley.
Halley, the librarian's daughter was such a powerful force. With her bright personality and style she was just the friendly Ben needed. She was encouraging, smart, and tried her best not to let her diagnosis bully her.
Flip was adorable, small and full of love. I could just feel how much he loved Ben. They had such a special bond. Flip was inspiring, sweet, and had a heart of gold.
Paul Griffin is an excellent author that I truly plan to read more from. He truly captured what it feels like to be so young and go through so much loss. Perfectly blending doses of love and pain, he not only allowed me to feel compassion for Ben, but to also truly feel many different emotions of my own. I found myself wiping tears away while reading this book.
When Friendship Followed Me Home was also a beautiful ode to libraries and reading in general in my opinion. Through Ben, Halley and Flip he showed all the wonderful things reading can do and what books mean to us all. They bring us together, become our friends, give us knowledge and a place to escape, and so, so, so much more.
This book also explores the issues of abandonment, domestic violence, homelessness, illness, grief, and socioeconomic diversity.
When Friendship Followed Me was a true gem.
March 8, 2017
Ok, I'll admit it - I don't understand how this book is receiving such good reviews I loved the premise, but the actual story left me cold. I never connected with the main characters, Ben and Halley. They were not very likeable and they never felt authentic. The only person I really liked was Mrs Lorentz, Halley's mum and Ben's school librarian. I found her caring and warm-hearted. Even Flip, the stray dog who adopted Ben didn't totally win me over which is unusual as I usually love the animals featuring in books.
I felt the author tried to fit too much into his novel, determined to pull at his readers' heart strings. However, the book ended up being totally unrealistic and formulaic. Yes, I did finish "When Friendship Followed Me Home", but not a single tear was shed; just a big sigh of relief that I had finally reached the last page.
I felt the author tried to fit too much into his novel, determined to pull at his readers' heart strings. However, the book ended up being totally unrealistic and formulaic. Yes, I did finish "When Friendship Followed Me Home", but not a single tear was shed; just a big sigh of relief that I had finally reached the last page.
September 17, 2020
Об этой книге хочется рассказывать и в то же время хочется молчать. Очень душевная и искренняя. Смешная и трогательная. Добрая и пронзительная. И совершенно не по-детски мудрая. Поднимается очень много непростых тем, много смысла, над которым нужно думать и пропускать через себя. Я невероятно рада, что приобщилась к этой истории, смогла ее прожить и что она будет у меня в бумажном виде. Я бы очень хотела, чтобы в будущем ее прочитал мой ребенок.
July 22, 2020
Ben hasn't had an easy life. He bonds with a ten pound dog who follows him one day and becomes friends with Halley, a young aspiring writer. Both help him to see the good and bad in others.
Fans of stories with dogs and drama will want to give this one a read.
Fans of stories with dogs and drama will want to give this one a read.
August 24, 2017
How much can one boy take in life? More than is bearable if you're Ben Coffin. But Ben faces life with grace and humility and a dog named Flip and a little magic. Heart-touching. Quirky believable characters. Bravo!
December 10, 2018
So I have been reading a lot of heartprint middle grade books lately and this is another great one. I am definitely going to recommend this to students who ask for a sad book. And there's lots to digest here when you put yourself in many of the characters' shoes.
March 18, 2018
4,5*
“Quando se trata de amor pelos livros, o destino é uma realidade” ❤️
“Quando se trata de amor pelos livros, o destino é uma realidade” ❤️
September 17, 2018
OH GOD. Ame el libro de principio a fin, cada página fue un mimo al corazón y en cada capítulo se me escapaba una lágrima. Se suma a mis libros favoritos, gracias por tanto.
December 24, 2017
Cuando la amistad me acompañó a casa: El libro más emotivo de este 2017
Gracias a la maravillosa editorial Del nuevo extremo me llegó este fabuloso ejemplar junto a Ponle color a tu vida. El libro anteriormente mencionado me pareció muy original y del libro que voy a hablar ahora...Sinceramente nunca esperaba que me fuese a encantar y pasa a ser automáticamente uno de los mejores libros del 2017 (por no decir el mejor).
PD: La primera semana del mes que viene haré una publicación en mi blog mencionando mis mejores y peores lecturas del 2017. Este claramente estará en el top 3 de los mejores.
Tanto la portada, el lomo, las solapas y contraportada son preciosas y transmiten muy bien el argumento de la historia. El diseño interior de las páginas me encanta y quería mencionar este punto ya que en la mayoría de reseñas nadie lo dice pero yo creo que hay que valorar todo del libro.
Cuando la amistad me acompañó a casa es un libro escrito por Paul Griffin lleno de emociones y sentimientos. Los que me hayan leído en otras reseñas saben que no me emociono nunca pero con este libro he sentido ganas de reír, ganas de gritar y no os lo voy a negar: Casi lloro. (Es probable que todos lloréis, pero no muestro mis sentimientos a los libros).
Este libro nos habla sobre Ben Coffin un chico adoptado que tiene su grupo de amigos, sus problemas familiares y sus problemas en la escuela. Ben, al que le encanta leer conocerá a la chica arcoíris en la biblioteca y el paso del tiempo todo se unirá.
No voy a explicar nada más pues sería muy probable de haceros spoiler. Pero a partir de este momento quedáis advertidos de que si no os gusta el drama o los libros tristes no lo leáis pues a este pobre chico le suceden bastantes puntos negativos (muy grandes) que yo no podía con mi pena.
Todos los personajes están elaborados a la perfección. Los conoces el punto necesario y no te cansas de largas descripciones que no aportan nada. El autor ha sabido crear personajes de todo tipo y pese a que pueda parecer una faena muy fácil en realidad no.
El final me ha encantado (si alguien lo ha leído que no piense mal). Me ha gustado ya que creo que nos muchas enseñanzas que nos hacen reflexionar: Tras la tormenta siempre sale el sol, pase lo que pase sigue adelante… Ahora mismo podría mencionar muchas frases.
Lo único malo que tengo que decir sobre el libro es que algunos capítulos para mi gusto eran algo predecibles ¡pero ya está! Gracias a la editorial por traer el libro a España para que más y más lector@s lo puedan leer.
Sin duda alguna recomiendo este libro a todos los lectores seáis del país que seáis pues está en español e inglés. También lo recomiendo si os gustó Wonder ya que se me asemejan un poco. Para acabar quería destacar que fue una lectura muy rápida. El primer día me leí 100 páginas de un tirón y el segundo me acabé el libro sin apenas darme cuenta.
Cuando la amistad me acompañó a casa será seguramente mi última lectura de este gran año. Lo bueno se hace esperar.
Gracias a la maravillosa editorial Del nuevo extremo me llegó este fabuloso ejemplar junto a Ponle color a tu vida. El libro anteriormente mencionado me pareció muy original y del libro que voy a hablar ahora...Sinceramente nunca esperaba que me fuese a encantar y pasa a ser automáticamente uno de los mejores libros del 2017 (por no decir el mejor).
PD: La primera semana del mes que viene haré una publicación en mi blog mencionando mis mejores y peores lecturas del 2017. Este claramente estará en el top 3 de los mejores.
Tanto la portada, el lomo, las solapas y contraportada son preciosas y transmiten muy bien el argumento de la historia. El diseño interior de las páginas me encanta y quería mencionar este punto ya que en la mayoría de reseñas nadie lo dice pero yo creo que hay que valorar todo del libro.
Cuando la amistad me acompañó a casa es un libro escrito por Paul Griffin lleno de emociones y sentimientos. Los que me hayan leído en otras reseñas saben que no me emociono nunca pero con este libro he sentido ganas de reír, ganas de gritar y no os lo voy a negar: Casi lloro. (Es probable que todos lloréis, pero no muestro mis sentimientos a los libros).
Este libro nos habla sobre Ben Coffin un chico adoptado que tiene su grupo de amigos, sus problemas familiares y sus problemas en la escuela. Ben, al que le encanta leer conocerá a la chica arcoíris en la biblioteca y el paso del tiempo todo se unirá.
No voy a explicar nada más pues sería muy probable de haceros spoiler. Pero a partir de este momento quedáis advertidos de que si no os gusta el drama o los libros tristes no lo leáis pues a este pobre chico le suceden bastantes puntos negativos (muy grandes) que yo no podía con mi pena.
Todos los personajes están elaborados a la perfección. Los conoces el punto necesario y no te cansas de largas descripciones que no aportan nada. El autor ha sabido crear personajes de todo tipo y pese a que pueda parecer una faena muy fácil en realidad no.
El final me ha encantado (si alguien lo ha leído que no piense mal). Me ha gustado ya que creo que nos muchas enseñanzas que nos hacen reflexionar: Tras la tormenta siempre sale el sol, pase lo que pase sigue adelante… Ahora mismo podría mencionar muchas frases.
Lo único malo que tengo que decir sobre el libro es que algunos capítulos para mi gusto eran algo predecibles ¡pero ya está! Gracias a la editorial por traer el libro a España para que más y más lector@s lo puedan leer.
Sin duda alguna recomiendo este libro a todos los lectores seáis del país que seáis pues está en español e inglés. También lo recomiendo si os gustó Wonder ya que se me asemejan un poco. Para acabar quería destacar que fue una lectura muy rápida. El primer día me leí 100 páginas de un tirón y el segundo me acabé el libro sin apenas darme cuenta.
Cuando la amistad me acompañó a casa será seguramente mi última lectura de este gran año. Lo bueno se hace esperar.
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