Hi! I’m Edie Eckhart. I’m a little bit different. I have a disability called cerebral palsy, so I talk slowly and fall over a lot. It’s never really bothered me because I’ve never known anything else.
It’s the start of Year Eight and there’s a new girl in Edie’s class from America! Edie can’t wait to get to know Mia and her twin brother, Benjamin. This is Thrilling with a capital T! Especially as Mrs Adler sits Mia next to Edie in class.
Mia has a hearing impairment and wears hearing aids. She seems shy and Edie knows how scary it can feel to join a new school. Maybe Edie can be the jam to Mia’s jelly? It’s time for… THE FRIEND MISSION!
Embark on a heartwarming and hilarious journey with Edie Eckhart in "The Amazing Edie Eckhart: The Friend Mission," a delightful paperback from bestselling author and comedian Rosie Jones. Published in 2024 by Hodder Children's Books, this book is perfect for young readers navigating the complexities of friendship, acceptance, and embracing what makes them unique. Edie Eckhart is no ordinary Year Eight student. Living with cerebral palsy, she faces the world with a unique perspective and an unwavering spirit. While she might talk a little slower and stumble a bit more than others, Edie's never let it define her. In fact, she embraces her differences! When Mia, a new girl from America with a hearing impairment, arrives at school, Edie sees an opportunity. Mia seems shy and unsure, and Edie remembers how daunting it can be to be the new kid. Armed with her infectious enthusiasm and a determination to spread joy, Edie launches "The Friend Mission" a plan to become the "jam to Mia's jelly" and show her the ropes. But making friends isn't always easy, and Edie soon discovers that understanding and celebrating differences is key to building genuine connections. Will Edie's optimistic spirit be enough to break through Mia's reserve? Can they overcome the challenges and form a lasting bond? "The Amazing Edie Eckhart: The Friend Mission" is more than just a charming story; it's a powerful message about inclusivity, empathy, and the importance of being yourself. Rosie Jones, known for her stand-up comedy and her advocacy for disability representation, infuses the narrative with humor, heart, and authentic lived experiences. Her unique voice shines through in Edie's character, making her relatable, inspiring, and utterly unforgettable. This engaging 80-page book is perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy stories about friendship, self-discovery, and overcoming obstacles. It is written in accessible language, perfect for children aged 8-12. "The Amazing Edie Eckhart" promotes discussion around disability, inclusivity and celebrates the joy of finding friendship in unexpected places. Fans of Jacqueline Wilson and Lisa Thompson will adore this heartwarming tale. Prepare to laugh, cheer, and be inspired by Edie Eckhart's remarkable spirit! This is the first book in what promises to be a brilliant series, making it a fantastic choice for starting a new collection or gifting to a young reader. Get ready to join Edie on her amazing adventures!