Told through three stories in a graphic-novel format, Otis & Peanut reflects on themes of loss, fear of change and cooperation while also demonstrating what it means to be supportive and caring. The book offers young readers a gentle, visually engaging roadmap for navigating complex emotions and building resilient friendships.

In the first story, “The Haircut,” Otis expresses anxiety to Peanut about getting a haircut. Otis’ main concern is that a haircut is such a change that they will no longer be themselves. Peanut works to be supportive, suggesting Otis buy a hat, coat and shoes. Through this interaction, Otis and Peanut demonstrate that managing change is possible, especially with the help of a supportive friend.

In “The Swing,” Peanut finds Otis alone on a swing and discovers that Otis is missing Pearl. The reader doesn’t learn who Pearl is or what happened, but regardless of the context, everyone can relate to missing someone. Peanut swings with Otis, listening to and acknowledging their thoughts and feelings.

In “The House,” Otis focuses on making a new house feel like home. On the outside, Otis begins painting the door and planting lilacs, but struggles with how to make the inside feel “right;” something is missing. Peanut makes the point that prior to Otis moving in, the home had no meaning for Peanut; it was just another house. Otis suggests Peanut go outside and knock on the door. Otis recognizes that it’s the friends who enter that truly make it feel like home.

In Otis & Peanut, each story can be a read aloud as the foundation for a lesson. The book is also ideal for guided and independent reading in Primary classrooms. Students can be encouraged think about identity, well-being, cooperation, self-regulation, problem-solving, the importance of friendship and a host of other topics through these stories. Don’t hesitate to introduce Otis & Peanut to your students.

Tyler Hughes is a member of the Kawartha Pine Ridge Occasional Teacher Local.