Neville by Norton Juster

Moving can be a rather traumatic experience for most young children.   Even if they are excited about a new house or new town, the idea of leaving all of their friends behind and having to make news ones can be completely overwhelming.

The boy did not want to move.  Everyone told him that he would "love it" and he was faced with having no friends and having to be the "new boy" at school.   His mother tries to console him, as mother's do.  Her words of encouragement were not helping, so she suggests that he take a walk down the block, "you might even meet someone".  (I'm guessing the boy must be in the 3rd grade).  

The boy walks down to the end of the block and then just sort of stands there like he wasn't sure what he was going to do next.   He tilts his head back, brings his hands up to his mouth and yells, "NEVILLE!" with all his might.   Another boy comes up, and offers to help, so they both begin shouting.   Then a girl joins them, explaining they are doing it wrong and need to shout in uninson, so she directs them in yelling.  Shortly, practically the entire block is looking for "Neville".

During the search, many kids and adults begin to ask questions about "Neville" - who he is, what he is like, will he come to sleep overs, does he have pets, etc.  After a while, they all give up the search for the evening, but promise to get together the next day to start in again.  The boy goes home and gets ready for bed.  As his mom tucks him in, you discover that he is indeed Neville.  In the process of looking for himself, he found many friends.

Great new view on a "moving" book, perfect to share.   Complimentary illustrations by G. Brian Karas add to the unique story.  Check it out!