Bridget sets off into a lovely day, to find some of her friends.

The first friend she finds is Royal, but an invitation from Bridget to meet up later is brushed away. He is too busy this afternoon.

She asks another friend, but he too seems to have other plans.

Again and again this happens, stealing the wonderful feelings Bridget began her day with.

While she went home alone, one of her friends realises what Bridget’s invitation to spend time together really is.

Quickly passing this on, each friend quickly gives an excuse for their behavior and “busyness.”

Can they save Bridget’s special day?

Another Oliver Jeffers gem to make not only the target audience but also adult readers – think.

In fact, I wonder if  I’m Very Busy isn’t a direct poke from this multi award winning author/ illustrator AT the adult/caregiver readers of picture books to their wee ones, about their own behaviour.

I’m Very Busy isn’t really a book about friends redeeming themselves in organising a quick whip together party. Are they really friends if they forgot in the first place, let alone not having a moment of time to even talk to Bridget before declaring themselves “….too busy” ?

As always however, Jeffers provides the laughs along the way within the age-old excuses we all have given in one way or another.

Slowing down and appreciating the REAL things in life is a strong message for us all, instead of giving fake excuses off the tops of our heads.

Thanks to Harper Collins NZ for my reading/review copy.

Author / Illustrator – Oliver Jeffers

Publisher – Harper Collins

Picture Book

(2025, Harper Collins, Birthdays, Friendship, Too Busy, Priorities, Thought Provoking)