Fast Friends

Every child has a voice if we take the time to listen.

In this appealing, energetic picture book, two kids with different challenges and strengths find they are just what the other needs to navigate classroom life.

Tyson does everything fast so fast he often disrupts the class. His teacher is always saying, "Too fast, Tyson!" And often he ends up playing all alone.

Suze, the new girl, is nonverbal with special needs. Sometimes her classmates don't know what those needs are.

But Tyson understands. Taking the time to interpret her cues, Tyson forms a special friendship with Suze, and teaches his classmates what it means to listen and understand others.

Heather M. O'Connor is a writer, editor and author from Ontario. She is also the author of the middle-grade novelBetting Game.

Claudia Dvilais an illustrator from Toronto. She has illustrated the nonfiction booksChild Soldierby Michel Chikwanine,Jessica Dee Humphreys, andChange It!, Move It!andTouch It!, all written by Adrienne Mason.She also wrote and illustrated the picture bookSuper Red Riding Hood.

• Here are the 2021 Blue Spruce Award finalists