In a timely release that addresses immigration and social inclusion, Collingwood Press has published Mudpuddle's New Friend, a picture book for readers ages 3 to 8 by New England author Miles F. Stember. The story centers on Mudpuddle, a small earthworm whose curiosity leads him to welcome a new family, the de la Tierras, who have moved to Turtletown from a faraway country. When Mudpuddle's father reacts with suspicion, Mudpuddle speaks up, his mother supports him, and the family eventually shares a meal that transforms a hardened opinion into an appreciation for cultural exchange.
The book's importance lies in its gentle handling of a complex and often divisive topic. By presenting a child who questions an adult's snap judgment, Stember provides a model for young readers to practice empathy and moral courage. The narrative does not lecture; instead, it shows how one simple hello can lead to understanding. In a time when debates over immigration and belonging are frequently heated, Mudpuddle's New Friend offers a constructive entry point for families, teachers, and librarians to discuss fairness, community, and what it means to be a good neighbor.
Stember, who has been writing stories since childhood and studied at NHTI and the University of New Hampshire, says he wanted to show children how much good can come from reaching out. "Sometimes the youngest member of the family sees most clearly," he notes, "and I hope Mudpuddle encourages readers to open their doors and their hearts." That message is especially relevant as schools and communities grapple with how to integrate newcomers and foster inclusive environments.
The book is available through multiple retailers, making it accessible to a wide audience. Readers can find it on amazon.com/dp/B0HFDMDHG6, on Mudpuddle's New Friend on Goodreads, and on Mudpuddle's New Friend on Kobo. It is also offered by Mudpuddle's New Friend on Bookshop, greenapplebooks.com/book/9798951043214, Mudpuddle's New Friend on Fable, and Mudpuddle's New Friend on Orell Füssli.
Educators will find the book a natural fit for lessons on community, belonging, and making newcomers feel at home. Its light touch and humorous moments keep the story engaging while its themes resonate with current social conversations. By focusing on a child's perspective, Stember avoids didacticism and instead invites readers to draw their own conclusions about acceptance and friendship. The result is a picture book that not only entertains but also equips young readers with the emotional tools to navigate an increasingly diverse world.
