Book Review - Storm Buddies

Storm Buddies (Paperback w/Plush Toys)

By: Melissa Pope
Illustrated By: Beth Zyglowicz
Publisher: 1st Books
Publication Date: August 2013
ISBN: 978-1-4918-1097-2
Reviewed by: Amy Lignor
Review Date: December 2015

Any child or parent (any human, for that matter) will agree: every single one of us suffers from at least one fear. Whether that be the creepy spider, the Stephen King-‘esque’ clown, the boss who has the power to fire us...the list goes on and on. But one of the largest fears out there still remains those loud storms that produce scary lightning and thunder. The kind that keeps us awake and makes us want to crawl under the bed. Well, believe it or not, there is now an answer to that problem.

This amazing (and much-needed) book, written by Melissa Pope, delves into that fear. Not only does it help and support kids, but Pope also uses plush “buddies” to drive home her point. With this incredible book (also available with just the paperback) comes a small, blue, soft pillow—and inside, three “buddies” await. A kitten, a horse, and a puppy are all there to hold and snuggle with while reading the book.

This is a tale of Tommy, a young boy who owns that fear of storms. His family has tried everything they can to help Tommy not be so scared, from praying for him to giving him snacks and bringing out the flashlights when the house goes dark from the storm. But poor Tommy just can’t be calmed. Until...one night while brushing his teeth, Tommy sees something move under his covers. (Another fear?) Not at all. When he looks, there is a blue pillow in the shape of a cloud with those three small animals inside that promise Tommy they will not only calm his fear, but they will also be his buddies forever.

It is no surprise that the author was able to 'hit the mark' for all the children out there. Once an elementary school teacher, Melissa is now a stay-at-home Mom. She loves spending time with her three children, and this is a tale that’s actually based on one of her own child’s fears. Her goal was to create characters that would come alive when children needed them the most. And, as it was with Toy Story, these characters are a true delight to behold.

Quill says: This is a book that will definitely be that “calm in the storm” that so many need. And they will absolutely love the gift of these three life-long pals. Great job!