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Book Buddies #1
Ivy Lost and Found
A lonely doll helps a child adjust to a blended family in the first of a charming series about library toys and the children who borrow them, written by Newbery Honoree Cynthia Lord.
Ivy was Anne the librarian's doll when she was a young girl. But now she has moved to Anne's library to be its newest Book Buddy--a toy that can be checked out just like a book. Ivy isn't sure she wants to be borrowed, though. She'd rather go back to just being Anne's favorite toy. Fern, a child who visits the library with her stepfamily, also wishes things could go back to the way they were, when Fern had her dad all to herself. When Fern takes Ivy home, an unexpected outdoor adventure helps both of them find confidence and belonging in their changing worlds. This heartwarming story by Cynthia Lord, with a classic feel and gentle illustrations by Stephanie Graegin, is the first in a chapter-book series that pairs friendly toys with child characters who need them.
Ivy was Anne the librarian's doll when she was a young girl. But now she has moved to Anne's library to be its newest Book Buddy--a toy that can be checked out just like a book. Ivy isn't sure she wants to be borrowed, though. She'd rather go back to just being Anne's favorite toy. Fern, a child who visits the library with her stepfamily, also wishes things could go back to the way they were, when Fern had her dad all to herself. When Fern takes Ivy home, an unexpected outdoor adventure helps both of them find confidence and belonging in their changing worlds. This heartwarming story by Cynthia Lord, with a classic feel and gentle illustrations by Stephanie Graegin, is the first in a chapter-book series that pairs friendly toys with child characters who need them.
80 pages, Hardcover
Published September 28, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
January 7, 2022
This is absolutely a book series I would have adored as a child.
March 21, 2022
Ivy used to be the favorite toy, but she was forgotten in a box in the attic for a long time. Now she has been added to the Book Buddies at the library, where children can check out a toy the way they would check out a book. Ivy is not sure she is ready for new adventures with new children, and she worries that she won't make friends with the other toys. She learns that if you are lost, it just means you can be found again.
A little girl, Fern, checks out Ivy while she is visiting her father for a week, and she confides her secrets to Ivy. Fern feels overwhelmed when her step-siblings take charge during their playtime, and she doesn't feel like she really belongs in the family. Ivy is such a good listener, that Fern gets the courage to tell her father how she feels and they become stronger as a family!
This book is so cute! Ivy is such a sweet character! I loved the character development as she discovers how to be a good friend to the new children. She even teaches some of the other toys how to weather the storm through their adventures and not be afraid they get lost.
This story has many positive messages woven into the narrative, but it never feels preachy or boring. The themes include being honest, accepting others, and being true to yourself.
The illustrations are so beautiful! I love the soft pencil art style and all the cute character designs.
This story gave me warm fuzzy feelings in my heart. What a delight! This book would be perfect for ages 7-10.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
A little girl, Fern, checks out Ivy while she is visiting her father for a week, and she confides her secrets to Ivy. Fern feels overwhelmed when her step-siblings take charge during their playtime, and she doesn't feel like she really belongs in the family. Ivy is such a good listener, that Fern gets the courage to tell her father how she feels and they become stronger as a family!
This book is so cute! Ivy is such a sweet character! I loved the character development as she discovers how to be a good friend to the new children. She even teaches some of the other toys how to weather the storm through their adventures and not be afraid they get lost.
This story has many positive messages woven into the narrative, but it never feels preachy or boring. The themes include being honest, accepting others, and being true to yourself.
The illustrations are so beautiful! I love the soft pencil art style and all the cute character designs.
This story gave me warm fuzzy feelings in my heart. What a delight! This book would be perfect for ages 7-10.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
September 22, 2021
Very cute
September 3, 2021
First sentence: Ivy's first memory was the birthday party. There was music and bright balloons. A girl's face lit up with joy.
Premise/plot: Ivy's owner is all grown up and a librarian (named Anne.) Ivy has spent many, many, many lonely years (well, it felt like forever) packed away and forgotten. Now that she's been rediscovered, she's joining other toys (dolls, stuffed animals) at the local library. Ivy finds herself one of "book buddies" that can be checked out for two weeks at a time. But she is NEW to this and a bit hesitant. Does she want to be checked out? Is being played with again worth the risks of the unknown dangers?
My thoughts: I really LOVED this one. I did. It was a tiny bit sad--that she spent years forgotten and packed away--but this time makes up such a small part of actual text. And the story is just wonderful! I really enjoyed getting to know Ivy and some of the other toys. And we do spend time with the family (the young children) that checks her out of the library. Ivy *is* needed in this home. And it's good to be needed again.
Premise/plot: Ivy's owner is all grown up and a librarian (named Anne.) Ivy has spent many, many, many lonely years (well, it felt like forever) packed away and forgotten. Now that she's been rediscovered, she's joining other toys (dolls, stuffed animals) at the local library. Ivy finds herself one of "book buddies" that can be checked out for two weeks at a time. But she is NEW to this and a bit hesitant. Does she want to be checked out? Is being played with again worth the risks of the unknown dangers?
My thoughts: I really LOVED this one. I did. It was a tiny bit sad--that she spent years forgotten and packed away--but this time makes up such a small part of actual text. And the story is just wonderful! I really enjoyed getting to know Ivy and some of the other toys. And we do spend time with the family (the young children) that checks her out of the library. Ivy *is* needed in this home. And it's good to be needed again.
October 4, 2021
A sweet early chapter book about a collection of toys that can be borrowed from the library, with plenty of illustrations. The story explores feelings of being forgotten, the adventure of being borrowed, and fitting into blended-family dynamics. This would work great as a read-aloud for preschool/early elementary, or for a reader just transitioning to chapter books.
November 22, 2021
so sweet
October 16, 2021
Ivy Lost and Found is an adorable book that I suspect I would have both loved and hated as a child. Ivy, our doll heroine, is given to a little girl, Annie, and the two become fast friends. Ivy loves Annie fiercely and the two go everywhere together... until they don't. Annie grows up and little by little she leaves Ivy behind. Ivy is eventually packed away and forgotten. Annie finds Ivy years later and decides to bring her to work at the library to be part of the book buddies program where kids can check out stuffed animals/dolls for two weeks. Ivy wants no part of this initially, as she wants to go back to being Annie's only. She finds herself reluctantly taken home by Fern, as neither is really too sure of this plan, but figure it's only for two weeks.
The rest of the book details the happenings while Ivy is on her first Book Buddy adventure and it's a sweet story. Earlier I said kid!me would've loved and hated it, and the loved part is obvious. Dolls have emotions and love you back! Yes! Hate is also kind of obvious because who wants to think of growing up and leaving your friends behind, breaking their hearts in the process? But I do think this book will help kids not feel too bad about maybe giving their toys a new life with someone else should the time come. And that is an invaluable lesson.
I was sent an ARC of this book but you can bet I'll be buying a copy for the goddaughter.
The rest of the book details the happenings while Ivy is on her first Book Buddy adventure and it's a sweet story. Earlier I said kid!me would've loved and hated it, and the loved part is obvious. Dolls have emotions and love you back! Yes! Hate is also kind of obvious because who wants to think of growing up and leaving your friends behind, breaking their hearts in the process? But I do think this book will help kids not feel too bad about maybe giving their toys a new life with someone else should the time come. And that is an invaluable lesson.
I was sent an ARC of this book but you can bet I'll be buying a copy for the goddaughter.
October 23, 2021
A forgotten toy gets a new chance at life and happiness when she is brought to the library to become a "book buddy." This story is sweet and comforting, that I think young readers will love it. Should appeal to fans of Toys Go Out: Being the Adventures of a Knowledgeable Stingray, a Toughy Little Buffalo, and Someone Called Plastic.
November 29, 2022
This title from the early chapter book series Book Buddies by Newbery Honor author Cynthia Lord features a new doll added to the library's book buddies program. Ivy was the favorite childhood companion of Anne the librarian but was put away with her other childhood things and forgotten. When Anne brings Ivy to the library, she is not sure she wants to be part of the borrowing program for buddies, but the other buddies encourage the experience. Ivy is borrowed by an older sibling who is hesitant as well, but the experience changes both of their stories.
As an early chapter book Ivy's story will appeal to readers aged 6-9 who enjoy series books. It can be read in any order in the series and with Ivy meeting all the other book buddies there is a way to engage readers who liked the book to find a new book right away. There are some fantasy aspects with the buddies being able to talk and move when the people aren't looking, but the story has realism as well from the child buddy's perspective.
What was done extremely well is how the engagement of the doll and child makes changes for both of them. Her child, Fern, is experiencing how to handle some common issues that many can relate to and might need guidance in how to handle them for good outcomes. Fern has a new stepfamily with younger children which makes her an automatic big sister and also has to deal with separation from a parent who very much wants to be in her life, but the physical distance makes that hard. It is a hopeful story with good characters and relatable themes that are age appropriate.
I would recommend this book for purchase by elementary school and public libraries.
This book was provided by the publisher for professional review by SWON Libraries.
As an early chapter book Ivy's story will appeal to readers aged 6-9 who enjoy series books. It can be read in any order in the series and with Ivy meeting all the other book buddies there is a way to engage readers who liked the book to find a new book right away. There are some fantasy aspects with the buddies being able to talk and move when the people aren't looking, but the story has realism as well from the child buddy's perspective.
What was done extremely well is how the engagement of the doll and child makes changes for both of them. Her child, Fern, is experiencing how to handle some common issues that many can relate to and might need guidance in how to handle them for good outcomes. Fern has a new stepfamily with younger children which makes her an automatic big sister and also has to deal with separation from a parent who very much wants to be in her life, but the physical distance makes that hard. It is a hopeful story with good characters and relatable themes that are age appropriate.
I would recommend this book for purchase by elementary school and public libraries.
This book was provided by the publisher for professional review by SWON Libraries.
Read
October 20, 2022Absolutely adorable. Chapter books of appropriate story line, language, and comprehension that are entertainingly engageable are treasures to be sought. I believe the Book Buddies stories fit this and that they will bring joy to young readers.
Written with the grade 1 to 4 child in mind, they are illustrated with pencil drawings which are soft, cute, and interesting. I think children will totally enjoy holding and reading these sweet books.
In Ivy Lost and Found we find that Anne, the little girl in the story, has a beloved doll named Ivy. Anne grows up and Ivy is placed in a box in the attic. Later we find that Anne has grown to be an adult librarian and brings Ivy to the library to be placed on the shelf of "Book Buddies." This particular library has a toy lending area where children can borrow books and toys.
Toy lending libraries are a wonderful way to provide toys to children whose families don't have the financial means to give them toys with which to play. It is also a way gently used toys can find new homes. I highly approve this idea.
The sweet story reads with a gentle flow of words that will be familiar and yet a challenge to readers. I really look forward to seeing more from this author and illustrator in the series of "Book Buddies" and perhaps other young reader chapter books. Read a sample chapter View/download activity kit
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
Written with the grade 1 to 4 child in mind, they are illustrated with pencil drawings which are soft, cute, and interesting. I think children will totally enjoy holding and reading these sweet books.
In Ivy Lost and Found we find that Anne, the little girl in the story, has a beloved doll named Ivy. Anne grows up and Ivy is placed in a box in the attic. Later we find that Anne has grown to be an adult librarian and brings Ivy to the library to be placed on the shelf of "Book Buddies." This particular library has a toy lending area where children can borrow books and toys.
Toy lending libraries are a wonderful way to provide toys to children whose families don't have the financial means to give them toys with which to play. It is also a way gently used toys can find new homes. I highly approve this idea.
The sweet story reads with a gentle flow of words that will be familiar and yet a challenge to readers. I really look forward to seeing more from this author and illustrator in the series of "Book Buddies" and perhaps other young reader chapter books. Read a sample chapter View/download activity kit
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
October 1, 2021
Ivy’s story is a familiar one. Her first memory is of a little girl at a birthday party when she first laid eyes on Ivy inside her store box. Anne and Ivy immediately became best friends who told each other secrets and were never apart. Then Anne grew up, and as it frequently happens with childhood toys, Ivy was tucked away in a box on the shelf and forgotten. Happily, though, many years later, grown up Anne, now a librarian, found Ivy once again, buried deep within her old closet. Instantly, Anne knew Ivy would be joining the other Book Buddies at her library. Book Buddies are dolls and stuffed animals that may be checked out just like books, and go home with eager boys and girls who are searching for a friend.
This sweet story, told to us by Ivy, with its short chapters and lots of gentle black and white illustrations will captivate your emerging reader. It’s the first in a new series all about the Book Buddies, the children who check them out and their shared adventures during their two week visits together. Many thanks to @candlewickpress for sharing the review copy of this darling book. It’s available today!
This sweet story, told to us by Ivy, with its short chapters and lots of gentle black and white illustrations will captivate your emerging reader. It’s the first in a new series all about the Book Buddies, the children who check them out and their shared adventures during their two week visits together. Many thanks to @candlewickpress for sharing the review copy of this darling book. It’s available today!
October 13, 2021
A sweet, but encouraging story of loss and reconnection as Ivy, a once much-loved doll finds herself stored away in a lonely attic box. She longs for Anne to 'find' her again and take her on adventures. When Anne does reappear, she is much older. She is now a librarian who takes Ivy to be a 'book-buddy' at storytime. Oh! How Ivy yearns for things to go to what they once were.
So, as per usual in the library, Ivy is 'adopted' for a two week stay with Fern, another lonely girl who is also longing for a reconnection. Since her parents divorced, she rarely, if ever, has time alone with her dad. His is too busy with his new family.
Secrets are told back and forth between Ivy and Fern and a new normal eventually is accepted. Empathy, friendship, and a promise to listen all prove healing for Fern and Ivy. Love this story for its wonderful portrait of storytimes and libraries where children can check out, not only books, but toys too. Fond memories for me as the check-outs were one of my most favorite parts as a Children's Librarian.
Thank you to LibraryThing Early Reviewers, Candlewick Press, and Cynthia Lord for this ARC.
So, as per usual in the library, Ivy is 'adopted' for a two week stay with Fern, another lonely girl who is also longing for a reconnection. Since her parents divorced, she rarely, if ever, has time alone with her dad. His is too busy with his new family.
Secrets are told back and forth between Ivy and Fern and a new normal eventually is accepted. Empathy, friendship, and a promise to listen all prove healing for Fern and Ivy. Love this story for its wonderful portrait of storytimes and libraries where children can check out, not only books, but toys too. Fond memories for me as the check-outs were one of my most favorite parts as a Children's Librarian.
Thank you to LibraryThing Early Reviewers, Candlewick Press, and Cynthia Lord for this ARC.
November 12, 2022
“Every toy has a story.”
Ivy was forgotten by the little girl, Anne, who used to play with her. She stayed in a box for a very long time until one day, Anne opens that box again. And what does Anne do? Takes her to a library to sit on a shelf and become one of the Book Buddies at Anne’s library. Book Buddies are toys that children can check out and take home for two weeks.
“Every borrowing is a new adventure.” After hearing of the adventures of some of the other Book Buddies, Ivy doesn’t want to be borrowed. She wants to stay on the shelf, close to Anne, where she once belonged. Maybe the other toys don’t see it, but Ivy feels that “Once you’ve truly belonged, nothing else comes close.”
But then Fern comes into the library with her step-sister Sophie. And though Fern doesn’t really want to borrow Ivy and Ivy doesn’t really want to go, they end up together anyway. Fern discovers that it’s nice to have “someone” who is a good listener, because she has sorrow in her heart. And Ivy discovers that sometimes a new adventure with new friends can be just what you need. “Ivy liked that being friends made them both braver.”
Great story for students new to chapter books.
Ivy was forgotten by the little girl, Anne, who used to play with her. She stayed in a box for a very long time until one day, Anne opens that box again. And what does Anne do? Takes her to a library to sit on a shelf and become one of the Book Buddies at Anne’s library. Book Buddies are toys that children can check out and take home for two weeks.
“Every borrowing is a new adventure.” After hearing of the adventures of some of the other Book Buddies, Ivy doesn’t want to be borrowed. She wants to stay on the shelf, close to Anne, where she once belonged. Maybe the other toys don’t see it, but Ivy feels that “Once you’ve truly belonged, nothing else comes close.”
But then Fern comes into the library with her step-sister Sophie. And though Fern doesn’t really want to borrow Ivy and Ivy doesn’t really want to go, they end up together anyway. Fern discovers that it’s nice to have “someone” who is a good listener, because she has sorrow in her heart. And Ivy discovers that sometimes a new adventure with new friends can be just what you need. “Ivy liked that being friends made them both braver.”
Great story for students new to chapter books.
October 3, 2021
First of a new series - Ivy was once the beloved doll and companion of little Anne who received Ivy as a birthday gift. Like all children they eventually outgrow even beloved treasured play things. Sadly, Ivy was packed away and long forgotten until one day the now adult Anne, a librarian finds her long forgotten friend and she comes up with an idea. Ivy comes to life once again as she becomes one of the library "book buddies" who can be checked out by other children. One child in particular child, a girl named Fern, finds Ivy to be just the friend she needs to share her thoughts and fears with as she eases into finding her place in a new blended mixed race family.
I loved that this story is told from Ivy's POV, and, the story seemed both sweet and realistic tin the way it showed the concerns of a young child finding herself in a new situation. I was left with a warm feeling and think this series has the potential to be be a wonderful new readers series with its short chapters and charming black and white illustrations.
I loved that this story is told from Ivy's POV, and, the story seemed both sweet and realistic tin the way it showed the concerns of a young child finding herself in a new situation. I was left with a warm feeling and think this series has the potential to be be a wonderful new readers series with its short chapters and charming black and white illustrations.
April 7, 2022
What a fantastic series idea (Book Buddies) from Cynthia Lord. This first is an early chapter book that introduces us to the book buddies at the local library; a collection of stuffed animals and dolls that children can check out and read their books to (or just play with). The newest addition is Ivy, who used to be the doll (and best friend) of the librarian, Ann, when she was a child. Ann rediscovers Ivy in an attic box and brings her to the library to become a book buddy. Ivy doesn't want to be checked out, she wants her old life back. But then she meets Fern, a girl who wants her old life back, too. Fern checks out Ivy and the adventure they have together changes them both in some wonderful ways. Can't wait to read the next book buddies edition "Marco Polo Brave Explorer"! Young readers are going to LOVE these.
September 28, 2021
When my daughter was young, she was convinced all her special stuffed animals got together at night and played. She would have loved this new 'first' book in a series about toys that can be borrowed at a library. Ivy, the main character, used to be the librarian Anne's special doll growing up. When Anne found Ivy who had been stored in a box, she took her to be with those others at the library. Ivy definitely would rather have gone home to be Anne's best friend again, but as she gets to know the other toys, each with their own personalities, and then she gets "borrowed", adventure awaits. It's quite a fun 'pretend' story, lovingly told by Cynthia Lord and illustrated by Stephanie Graegin.
Thanks to Candlewick Press for the copy!
Thanks to Candlewick Press for the copy!
November 24, 2021
Perfect book for making kids paranoid about donating their old toys.
Ivy was once Anne’s favorite doll. But then she got put away in a box in an attic. When she gets rediscovered, Anne is now an adult, and a librarian. She brings Ivy to her library and adds her to the Book Buddies shelf. Now Ivy can be checked out by a child and read to for two weeks. Ivy’s first check out is with an 8 year old named Fern, and she learns being a Book Buddy can be fun.
More nuance than is typical for starter chapter books. 68 pages, lots of pictures. The book is taller, like a reader, but this means there is a lot of text on each page, which could be intimidating.
Ivy was once Anne’s favorite doll. But then she got put away in a box in an attic. When she gets rediscovered, Anne is now an adult, and a librarian. She brings Ivy to her library and adds her to the Book Buddies shelf. Now Ivy can be checked out by a child and read to for two weeks. Ivy’s first check out is with an 8 year old named Fern, and she learns being a Book Buddy can be fun.
More nuance than is typical for starter chapter books. 68 pages, lots of pictures. The book is taller, like a reader, but this means there is a lot of text on each page, which could be intimidating.
May 20, 2023
A cozy, gentle fantasy about toys that get checked out from the library to have adventures. I think the series will follow each Book Buddy and one of their adventures. This first one centers on Ivy and two other book buddies. Ivy is the children's librarian's former doll who is found and added to the book buddy collection. Fern checks reluctantly checks her out (Fern does not play with dolls). Fern finds that Ivy is a good listener, and Ivy in a way helps Fern navigate some of the tricky situations of living in blended family and split household.
I think this series will be perfect for fans of books like the Toys Go Out and the Velveteen Rabbit.
I think this series will be perfect for fans of books like the Toys Go Out and the Velveteen Rabbit.
April 8, 2024
This sweet little story brims with heartfelt charm without becoming too precious. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It has a bit of a timeless feel in the way the children play with their dolls and stuffies, yet is also quite contemporary with blended families. I'm curious if anyone has been to a library that has Book Buddies? (I've never seen them but in this book children are able to check out a doll or stuffed animal from the library to read to at home for a few weeks and should write or draw in the doll's little journal about some of the adventures that are shared during the check-out period.)
January 31, 2022
If you've ever known a child who wondered what toys do when no one is looking, he/she will enjoy the new Book Buddies series by acclaimed author Cynthia Lord! I loved reading about the innocent adventures of the toys, the conversations (and conflicts) between them, and their feelings about the humans who care for them. Children will love the imaginative journey! Detailed, expressive black and white drawings accompany each short chapter and add to the appeal. Looking forward to Book 2!
November 29, 2022
Book Buddies is a new series that is the perfect fit for children wanting to start chapter books. It follows the adventures of donated toys loaned out at the library. In this story a doll named Ivy is unsure about meeting a new child. Fern is a young girl trying to find her place in a blended family. Cute Illustrations help readers join in their adventures as they gradually help each other fit in. Age appropriate and fun to read, the next in the series is entitled, Marco Polo Brave Explorer.
September 30, 2021
For such a thin book I was amazed by how much story and heart was held inside. A little girl dealing with a new family situation takes a toll home from the library. I love how the story empowered kids to talk about their emotions and problem solve and being seen through the eyes of the doll gave the whole thing a warm, magical feeling.
October 1, 2025
I adored this book! The ‘Book Buddies’ series reminds me of my childhood where I would have heart filled connections with my treasured dolls. I can really see children enjoying these adventures.
‘Ivy Lost and Found’ is a wonderful start for a book series. I’m definitely recommending this to my littles!
‘Ivy Lost and Found’ is a wonderful start for a book series. I’m definitely recommending this to my littles!
October 31, 2021
EARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
This series is based on a real library practice: loaning stuffed buddies to children in addition to books. Finding good series books for younger readers can be tough, but Cynthia Lord hit the mark!
This series is based on a real library practice: loaning stuffed buddies to children in addition to books. Finding good series books for younger readers can be tough, but Cynthia Lord hit the mark!
May 14, 2022
What a nice little series! Looking forward to reading the rest of the books featuring the toy characters. Great for emerging readers who are looking for longer stories than the Early Readers but still enjoy an abundance of illustrations.
November 20, 2022
Fern finds a friend
I would recommend this book to someone who LOVES reading to stuffed animals or any other toy or to someone who knows someone else who is named Ivy,Fern,Anne,Ethan,Sophie,Nicole,Homer,Dazzle or Marco Polo!!
I would recommend this book to someone who LOVES reading to stuffed animals or any other toy or to someone who knows someone else who is named Ivy,Fern,Anne,Ethan,Sophie,Nicole,Homer,Dazzle or Marco Polo!!
November 20, 2024
A sweet early chapter book about a toy that has been forgotten but has a chance to feel loved again through a library Book Buddy program. Explores concepts like divorce, dealing with step-siblings, and feeling left behind. A heartwarming story with lovable characters and a happy ending.
Want to Read
April 3, 2021Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book through Edelweiss.
June 21, 2021
Wasn't sure I'd like this but turned into a sweet story about being brave and adventures one can have. A classic story theme with old school tone.
October 12, 2021
“Being forgotten means you can be found again.”
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews