Brown-skinned Stella’s teary goodbye to her mom on the first day of school is followed by a cheery hello from white-skinned, long-haired Charlie once she arrives. The two classmates are soon good friends. Their activities throughout the year are described in a series of “goodbye/hello” statements paired with comforting digital ink illustrations full of warmth. Stella and Charlie’s friendship is full of fun, laughter, comfort, and encouragement to try new things (“Goodbye to almost giving up … is hello to one more try”). A story that emphasizes how every ending, even a sad one, is also a beginning is set across changing seasons and changing lives, with possibility always waiting. Highly Commended, 2020 Charlotte Zolotow Award (Ages 3–7)