A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling lonely after a friend has moved away or is struggling to understand the give-and-take of new friendships. This gentle fantasy novel follows Philippa Fisher, who is sad and friendless until she meets her clumsy but well-meaning fairy godmother, Daisy. Granted three wishes, Philippa immediately wishes for a new best friend. The book thoughtfully explores the consequences of getting exactly what you think you want, providing a safe, magical space to examine what makes a true, healthy friendship. It's a sweet, hopeful story for kids navigating the tricky social world of elementary school.
The core topic is childhood loneliness, which is handled directly but with a gentle, reassuring tone. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, focusing on self-reliance and the skills to build healthy relationships. The approach is entirely secular and metaphorical, using magic to explore real-world social dynamics.
Ideal Reader
An 8-10 year old who is navigating the loss of a friendship, feeling left out, or struggling with a new, potentially possessive friend. It is perfect for a sensitive child who enjoys fantasy but can benefit from seeing social challenges modeled and resolved in a clear, accessible way.
Parent Prep
No preparation is needed; the book can be read cold. The themes are presented in an age-appropriate manner. It could be helpful for a parent to be ready to discuss what makes a good friend and how it's okay for friends to have other friends too. A parent overhears their child saying, "I wish I had a new best friend," or notices their child is in an all-consuming friendship that seems to be causing more anxiety than joy. The child might be idealizing friendship and need help understanding its realistic complexities.
Age Experience
Younger readers (8-9) will latch onto the magical elements: the fairy, the wishes, and the clear distinction between the "bad" wished-for friend and "good" real friends. Older readers (10-11) will appreciate the nuance of Philippa's emotional journey, recognizing Robyn's subtle manipulation and the importance of Philippa finding her own voice.
What Makes It Special
This book uses the classic "be careful what you wish for" trope as a direct and brilliant metaphor for unhealthy friendships. It makes the abstract idea of a toxic relationship concrete by literally having a magical, perfect-on-paper friend appear, allowing children to analyze the dynamic from a safe, fantastical distance.
Read plot summary
Ten-year-old Philippa Fisher is heartbroken when her best friend moves away. Her loneliness is interrupted by the arrival of Daisy, her assigned "Fairy-in-Charge," who offers her three wishes. Philippa's first wish is for a new best friend. Instantly, a girl named Robyn appears and seems perfect. However, Robyn is possessive and demanding, isolating Philippa from other potential friends. Philippa, with help from a conflicted Daisy, must use her remaining wishes to untangle the mess she's made and learn that real friendship is something you build, not something you wish for.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
When Philippa wishes for a best friend, Robyn appears. What were the first signs that Robyn might not be the great friend Philippa had hoped for?
2
Daisy is Philippa's 'Fairy-in-Charge,' but she's still learning and makes mistakes. Why do you think it's important that Daisy isn't perfect at her job?
3
Philippa felt like she had to choose between being friends with Robyn and being friends with other people. Why is it important to have more than one friend?
4
If you were given three wishes, would you use one on friendship? Why or why not, based on what happened to Philippa?
