Collingwood Press has released Mudpuddle's New Friend, a picture book for readers ages 3 to 8 by New England author Miles F. Stember. The story follows Mudpuddle, a small earthworm in Turtletown, who welcomes a new neighbor, Gus de la Tierra, whose family has immigrated from a faraway country. When Mudpuddle's father reacts with suspicion, Mudpuddle speaks up, his mother supports him, and the family eventually shares a meal at the de la Tierra home, where a plate of unfamiliar food softens his father's stance. The book addresses immigration and bias with a light touch, emphasizing kindness, curiosity, and the courage to question snap judgments.
This release matters because it arrives amid ongoing national debates about immigration and belonging. By presenting a child who gently challenges a parent's assumption, the book offers a tool for families and educators to discuss fairness, empathy, and what it means to be a good neighbor. Teachers and librarians will find it a natural fit for lessons on community and making newcomers feel at home. The story's message—that one simple hello can lead to understanding—resonates beyond the classroom, encouraging readers of all ages to open their doors and hearts.
Stember said, "I wanted to write a story that shows children how much good can come from one simple hello. Sometimes the youngest member of the family sees most clearly, and I hope Mudpuddle encourages readers to open their doors and their hearts." The book is available through multiple retailers, including amazon.com/dp/B0HFDMDHG6 and Mudpuddle's New Friend on Goodreads. It can also be found on Mudpuddle's New Friend on Kobo and Mudpuddle's New Friend on Bookshop.
Stember, who has been writing stories since he was about Mudpuddle's age, placed second in a young writers' contest in fifth grade and had his work featured by New Hampshire Public Broadcasting in Durham. He honed his craft at NHTI, Concord's Community College, and the University of New Hampshire. He lives in New England.
In a time when discussions about immigration often divide communities, Mudpuddle's New Friend offers a timely reminder that connection begins with a single hello. The book's release is a small but meaningful contribution to children's literature, providing a gentle entry point for conversations that can shape how the next generation views diversity and belonging.
