Shortly after Anish and his family arrive in town, he is surprised to meet a pigeon collecting coins. "That's why they call me Cash, young man," says the pigeon. The two quickly become friends, and Cash tells Anish that a squirrel is trying to steal his loot. Cash also shares the amazing story of his ancestor, Cher Ami, a hero who saved many soldiers in 1918. Anish admits that he is a little frightened because the next day is his first day at school and everything is new to him. Cash arranges for Anish to meet some of his human friends by inviting Anish to play on his soccer team. The next day, Anish is excited and happy. Everyone at school and on his soccer team is friendly and helpful. After school each day, Coach Cash drills the soccer team to prepare for an upcoming tournament, but a sneaky squirrel continually steals things from him. The players, however, form a great team because they are unselfish and appreciate others. All their practice and hard work pay off, and the championship game is full of excitement and surprises.

Dedication:

To My Friends

You warm me with your presence

We share memories of our past

We cheer and console each other

That's why our friendships last.

We chit - chat and share secrets

We keep each other in our prayers

We strive to be honest and loyal

We know each other cares.

Friends are precious gifts

That can't be bought or sold

So, you see my dear companions

Our bond is pure gold!

About the Author

Years ago, a devasting hurricane hit the city where Sandy Thompson lived. Residents evacuated, scattering all across the country. Houses were destroyed, and companies moved to other states. The many uprooted people had to start over. Their children had to leave their friends and attend new schools.

Mrs. Thompson maintained close relationships with many of her former students and their families. Parents often called to tell her what their children were doing in their new schools. Sandy remembers one touching story about a school that established a "buddy bench" on its playground. New students or those who had no one to play with could sit on this special bench to alert their peers, who were encouraged to ask those on the bench to join them. Sandy thought this was such a wonderful strategy for helping kids meet one another and form friendships.

Years later, Sandy described this special bench to some of her lifelong friends. They laughed, imagining what it would be like for them to meet on such a bench today. They certainly would not come to the bench to join a game of tag, but perhaps they would exchange recipes or tell one another about their aches and pains. Sandy realized how long she has been friends with so many wonderful people. Though many now live far away, they remain a big part of her life, and Sandy smiles whenever she contemplates how lucky she is.