First Night at Dad's: A Reassuring Book about Divorce, Separation, and Family Changes

A heartfelt picture book about one of the big milestones for kids in the midst of a divorce or separation--spending their first night at the other parent's house--and the love that can be found everywhere.

Henry feels a little nervous. It still seems strange that Dad doesn't live with him and his mom anymore ... that they're getting a divorce. But now he's going to spend the night away from his mom, and that's even stranger. Mom says it will be an adventure, but Henry isn't sure.

Then Dad picks him up and drives him to the new house--a beautiful place with a tree swing and a field full of flowers. Inside, some things are familiar, like Dad's pasta sauce and rules about bedtime. And some things are different, especially when Henry misses his mom. As Henry works through his big feelings about change, he comes to understand that no matter where he is, the most important thing is always the same: how much both of his parents love him. An author's note from New York Times bestselling writer Elizabeth Rudnick reflects on her own experiences with parenting her child through a separation and this unexpected milestone.

This touching and much-needed book will reassure any parents and children going through their own family shifts that change can be managed, and they are not alone.

Author: Elizabeth Rudnick
Publisher: Workman Kids
Published: 04/28/2026
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.90lbs
Size: 11.20h x 8.70w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781523529209
Audience: Ages 4-8

About the Author
ELIZABETH RUDNICK has worked in publishing for over two decades as a writer, editor, and agent. She has written more than thirty books including the YA novel Tweet Heart, as well as numerous bestselling Disney novelizations such as Cinderella, Frozen, Moana, and Beauty and the Beast. First Night at Dad's marks her original picture-book debut. Elizabeth lives in Cape Cod, Mass., with her son and their dog. When she is not reading, writing, or driving her son to his activities, she can be found riding her horse. Find her online at elizabethrudnick.com.

YAARA CELLIER is an illustrator and animator from France. She received her degree in animation from the Ecole Georges Melies, and now focuses on writing and illustrating children's books. She lives in France. Find her online at yaaracellier.com.