Patrick & George - Adventure, Empathy and Friendship

Patrick & George - Adventure, Empathy and Friendship By Jessica Urlichs & Craig Phillips

Why we love it

Patrick and George captures our hearts with its beautiful story of empathy, vulnerability, and connection. Jessica Urlichs’ warm and relatable writing makes emotions feel approachable, while Craig Phillips’ enchanting illustrations create a world that’s both imaginative and comforting.

We love how Patrick’s quiet support for George teaches tamariki (and adults!) that sometimes the best way to help someone is simply to listen. The adventures the pair share spark conversations about bravery, problem-solving, and emotional openness, making this book a powerful tool for building emotional intelligence and connection.

Patrick and George is more than a story – it’s a heartwarming reminder of the power of empathy in our relationships, and a book we can’t stop recommending to families and schools alike.

How You Can Use It

At Bedtime: Read Patrick and George together and talk about the moments when Patrick listens to George. Ask your child how they might support a friend who feels the same way.

In the Classroom: Use this book as a teaching resource to introduce empathy and emotional awareness. Pair it with Rebekah Lipp’s Parent and Teacher Notes to guide group discussions and activities.

During Challenges: When your child is navigating big emotions, revisit Patrick and George to remind them of the power of listening and sharing feelings with someone they trust.

What Results Have We Seen?

Children and adults alike are finding inspiration in Patrick and George. This book encourages tamariki to express their emotions, listen with care, and build stronger relationships. Anna Mowat, from our team, reviewed this gem for the Mental Health Foundation, highlighting its profound impact on fostering empathy, friendship skills and emotional resilience.

We have been recommending this book for children who are finding friendships challenging and are learning about seeing things from other perspectives, and we’re seeing great results!