Birt and Etho are BIG friends. Playing together they let their imaginations sore and cardboard boxes become castles, yachts, rockets and space ships. Birt loves their two-by-two rhythm. Then one (cold) Monday morning a tiny boy named Shu comes along. He has been watching them play from afar and has finally plucked up the courage to ask if he can join in too – he has brought his cardboard box. Two become three, Etho welcomes Shu – but Birt feels strange …

Two’s company, three is a crowd – a beautiful story raising philosophical questions about the nature and value of friendship.

What makes a good friend?

Is friendship a gift given freely or do we expect something in return for our friendship?

Is it possible to be lonely in a crowd?

Do we need friends to lead a good life?

Do friends shape who we are and who we will become?

What is the difference between being alone and being lonely?