When I Feel Lonely
Britta Teckentrup
Prestel

We all, adults and children, feel lonely from time to time and it can far too easily become overwhelming. Loneliness is the theme of Britta Teckentrup’s latest book. Herein we follow a young girl as she walks through a snowy forest: ‘My world feels lonely, cold and bare / with no one around and nothing to share’ she tells readers. Behind her however, is a wolf that has been on her trail as she traverses the grey landscape and after a while, the child narrator pauses and gives the creature a hug,

Then together they howl at the moon and the girl goes on to contemplate reaching out to others but says she’s frightened of being rejected if she approaches other children.
The wolf then shares some encouraging words of wisdom with her and strengthened by what she’s heard, the girl continues on her way and before long, she becomes aware of other children who are also searching for friends.

So, empowered by wolf’s words, can she take those vital first steps and reach out to another?
Britta’s empathetic, rhyming text shows readers that loneliness is a common feeling, but not usually a permanent one.This is brought out beautifully in the author’s powerful scenes of the walk wherein her colour changes indicate gradual improvement in the young girl’s mood.

A book to share and discuss with a class or group, some of whom might have felt lonely, perhaps on account of moving home or falling out with a special friend.