The Best Friend Interview (Paperback)

If you ask a child today who her best friend is, chances are her answer will probably be different next week. Children have many "best friends," "good friends," and "acquaintances." Sometimes they form a special bond with someone and that friendship can last a lifetime. Unfortunately, situations can change and the friendship may end because a child moves, different interests develop, or even the unfortunate case of death of one person. Losing a best friend can be devasting to anyone, especially a child. The main character in the book experiences the loss of her best friend. She tries to cope with the situation by replacing her. She soon realizes that no one is capable of replacing her best friend. Instead of finding a replacement, the mother in the story helps her daughter validate her feelings of sadness and loss. She encourages her daughter to find a special place in her heart to remember her best friend and keep the wonderful memories alive that they shared together. Mom's advice reinforces the idea that if you are fortunate enough to have a true best friend than one should consider oneself lucky. The main character comes to the realization that even if a friend is no longer in one's life for whatever reason, that friend can remain in one's heart and never be replaced.

This is the first book written by Deborah Bode. Deborah and Michele were best friends growing up. From the age of three, they developed a friendship that lasted a lifetime. Their fathers, now both in their late sixties, were even friends growing up. It goes without saying that there is a great amount of history shared between the two families. Fast forward 41 years to July 6, 2016. Michele's life was taken in a domestic violence tragedy. As a result, her three children have suffered tremendously, losing both their mother and father. Michele was a special person. She truly touched the life of everyone she met. She always had a smile on her face, was willing to do anything for anybody, and NEVER complained. Knowing Michele and sharing in her life was truly a gift. As a result of the heartbreaking situation the children have been left to face, Deborah wanted to honor Michele's memory by writing a children's book based on the friendship they shared growing up. Fortunately, Michele has a beautiful and amazing family that is helping take care of the children. However, one can only imagine the overwhelming responsibility of raising three children both emotionally and financially. Deborah's hope is to share the book with as many people as possible. The purpose of the book is to provide a tribute to Michele as well as help her three beautiful children who have been innocently left behind. Additionally, if the book can help other children understand and deal with the loss of a best friend, then its purpose is even greater. All profits earned from the sale of the book will go directly to Michele's three children. Rest in peace, Michele.