Best Friend in the Whole World

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

A lonely rabbit, a quiet pine cone, and their perfect bond are tested in this charming picture book about friendship, compassion, and loss.

“Who is the ‘Best Friend in the Whole World’? After reading this sweet, sensitive tale, children can decide for themselves.” ―The New York Times

Roland lives a quiet life filled with books, music, and tea parties for one, but sometimes he feels rather lonely. When Roland finds the perfect companion in Milton (Good listener! Enjoys music! Also alone!), he is overjoyed. It’s okay that Milton is just a pine cone; they have so much in common.

Then clues start popping up in the woods, suggesting someone else might be missing their best pine cone friend. Roland must decide if it’s worth leaving someone else in their loneliness to keep Milton in his life.

In this sweet and moving picture book, debut author-illustrator Sandra Salsbury explores friendship, compassion, loss, and the transformative power of connection. Soft watercolor illustrations bring a charming forest and endearing characters to life.

About the Author

Sandra Salsbury received the 2018 SCBWI Don Freeman Illustration Grant. She has a BFA and MFA in Illustration from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and lives in Berkeley, California, where she cares for numerous house plants and a software engineer. She enjoys hiking, snooping at open houses, and telling people what to do on the internet.

Author Residence: Berkeley, CA

Author Hometown: San Francisco, CA

Sandra Salsbury received the 2018 SCBWI Don Freeman Illustration Grant. She has a BFA and MFA in Illustration from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and lives in Berkeley, California, where she cares for numerous house plants and a software engineer. She enjoys hiking, snooping at open houses, and telling people what to do on the internet.

Illustrator Residence:Berkeley, CA

Illustrator Hometown:San Francisco, CA