Real Friends (Friends, 1)
“Fresh and funny.” ―New York Times Book ReviewNewbery Honor author Shannon Hale and New York Times bestselling illustrator LeUyen Pham join forces in this graphic memoir about how hard it is to find your real friends―and why it's worth the journey.When best friends are not forever . . . Shannon and Adrienne have been best friends ever since they were little. But one day, Adrienne starts hanging out with Jen, the most popular girl in class and the leader of a circle of friends called The Group. Everyone in The Group wants to be Jen's #1, and some girls would do anything to stay on top . . . even if it means bullying others.Now every day is like a roller coaster for Shannon. Will she and Adrienne stay friends? Can she stand up for herself? And is she in The Group―or out?Parents Magazine Best Graphic Novel of 2017A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2017A 2017 Booklist Youth Editors' ChoiceA 2018 YALSA Great Graphic Novel
In the captivating novel "Real Friends (Friends, 1)" by Shannon Hale, readers are introduced to the world of Jade, a young girl navigating the complexities of friendship and self-discovery. Set in the vibrant city of New York, the story follows Jade as she embarks on a journey to find true friendship and forge meaningful connections with others.
As Jade begins middle school, she finds herself struggling to fit in. Her quirky personality and unconventional interests make it challenging for her to relate to her peers. Amidst the cliques and social hierarchies, Jade feels like an outsider, longing for genuine friendship and acceptance.
Determined to change her situation, Jade decides to take matters into her own hands. With the help of her eccentric Aunt B, Jade devises a plan to reinvent herself and become the most popular girl in school. However, as she embarks on this quest for popularity, Jade begins to realize that there is more to friendship than just being popular.
Along the way, Jade crosses paths with a diverse group of characters, each with their own unique struggles and aspirations. There's Dillon, a rebellious boy with a troubled past, and Kennedy, a seemingly perfect girl who harbors hidden insecurities. As Jade interacts with these characters, she learns valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and the true meaning of friendship.
As Jade's journey continues, she discovers that real friends are those who accept you for who you truly are, flaws and all. She learns to embrace her individuality and finds the courage to stand up for what she believes in. Through her experiences, Jade grows as a person and develops a newfound appreciation for the people who truly matter in her life.
"Real Friends" is a heartwarming and humorous tale that explores the complexities of friendship, self-acceptance, and the power of being true to oneself. With its relatable characters and engaging storyline, the book is a must-read for young readers navigating the ups and downs of middle school and beyond.
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