BFFs. Besties. Frenemies. Why do kids have so many names for friends? Maybe it’s because after family, your kiddos’ pals are the greatest force in their lives. It starts with toddler play dates set up by mom, and before you know it they’re inviting kids over for an all-night movie marathon. Read on to discover eight of our favorite books about the power of friendship.
This post is sponsored by HarperCollins publishing’s new HarperAlley graphic novels for early readers, ages 6-10. The novels harness the power of visual learning to engage kids and help emerging readers build their literary skills to become confident, independent readers. Learn more about the graphic novels Pea Bee & Jay, Arlo & Pips and Beak & Ally!
Yo! Yes?
Sometimes the language of friendship is as simple as a “yo!” In this vibrantly illustrated story, two boys from different backgrounds become friends from the start of a tentative greeting.
Ages: 2-4
Get it here, $7.99
You Are Friendly
This award-winning book teaches kids there are numerous to connect with others. Inviting someone to play, sharing and being kind are all ways to make and keep friends.
Ages: 2-4
Get it here, $7.99
Beak & Ally, by Norm Feuti
A brand-new early reader graphic novel series about finding friendship in unexpected places! Ally the alligator is perfectly happy being alone... until one day a noisy bird named Beak lands on her snout. Much to Ally’s annoyance, this chatty bird likes to sing constantly and has chosen a nearby tree to build his new nest. Even worse, he insists that he and Ally should be best friends. In fact, he has all kinds of friendship goals in mind, and it seems nothing Ally says will convince him that she’d rather just be alone. Nothing beats peace and quiet... except for maybe a new best friend?
$12.99
Get it here.
The Invisible Boy
No one ever notices Brian, and he’s not included. Everything changes when a new kid comes to class. Brian makes him feel welcome right away, and they form a special bond that helps each of them shine.
Ages: 6-9
Get it here, $10.59
How to Be a Friend
This fun dinosaur character-themed book is a friendship how-to guide. Kids learn how to show someone they want to be friends, how to handle bullies, how to be a good friend, and even conflict resolution.
Ages: 4-8 years
Get it here, $8.99
All Are Welcome
Teaching kids the importance of inclusion is the building block of friendship. This book follows a group of kids of all backgrounds as they are wholeheartedly welcomed at school by their teachers and peers.
Ages: 4-8 years
Get it here, $14.19
Enemy Pie
Jeremy Ross is the new kid on the block and enemy number one. His dad has a special recipe to turn enemies into friends: Enemy Pie. Part of the recipe is spending a whole day playing with the enemy so it may not be easy, but it's bound to work!
Ages: 5-9
Get it here, $13.99
The One and Only Ivan
This Newberry Award-winning book tells the story of Ivan, a gorilla who lives in a shopping mall with humans watching his mundane life through the glass. A baby elephant named Ruby who was taken from her family meets Ivan, and changes his life forever, as only true friendship can.
Ages: 8-12
Get it here, $7.99
This post is sponsored by HarperCollins publishing’s new HarperAlley graphic novels for early readers, ages 6-10. The novels harness the power of visual learning to engage kids and help emerging readers build their literary skills to become confident, independent readers. Learn more about the graphic novels Pea Bee & Jay, Arlo & Pips and Beak & Ally!
—Emma Bland Smith & Jamie Aderski
