The Best of Both Nests

Plot Summary

Stanley’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Stork, clatter at each other all day long. Stanley just wishes the noise would end. Then one day, Mrs. Stork tells Stanley that Dad is going to fly off and build his own nest.

At school, Stanley worries about Dad missing Fathers’ Flyday Friday. His friend Stella says her father won’t be there because his nest is too far away. “Two nests are better than one,” says Stella. “Well, I say one nest is best,” says Stanley. All week, Stanley misses his dad and worries that it’s all his fault.

On Fathers’ Flyday Friday, Stanley’s dad arrives at the last second. Later, his father tells him that the new nest is ready for Stanley to see. Dad says Stella can even visit sometimes, and Stanley thinks that maybe two nests will work out.

This divorce story is for very young children who are just beginning to deal with their parents’ separation. The sweet pictures will add comfort and reassurance. The author lives in England; the illustrator lives in Ohio.

Reviews

"The drawings are bright and simple, the text is easy enough for beginning readers, and children will be happy to see the upset young stork's gradual acceptance of his new situation." School Library Journal

"I am a therapist and family counselor in Seattle, Washington, USA. I work primarily with divorced/divorcing families and children of divorce. I am forever searching for excellent books to enhance my practice. It has not been easy. There so many books out about divorce, but the quality of yours far exceeds what I have found for that age group in so many ways. It is simple and speaks directly to kids. It is sad and hopeful at the same time--a great balance--just like life. I appreciate your work and enjoyed reading about you on your website after reading The Best of Both Nests. Congratulations on a true masterpiece. My agency puts out a reading list, and this book will be at the top of our list of recommendations. Thank you!" Erin Byrnes, M.Ed., Comprehensive Divorce Counseling Services

"The artwork gives a sense of the "Old Country" where storks are found and facial expressions convey the anger, dejection, relief, and love of the primary characters. Undoubtedly there are countless children out there to whom it will speak."
Library Media Connection

Associated Keywords
divorce, separation, parents, family, separate, divorcing, marriage, 06680, 0668-0