June 25, 2026

Books About Real Friendship

Real friendship, from picture books to a first chapter book.

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These are the books featured in this post — tap any cover to find it on Amazon.

Cover of Those Shoes

Those Shoes

by Maribeth Boelts

But all the kids are wearing them! Any child who has ever craved something out of reach will relate to this warm, refreshingly realistic story. Features an audio read-along. "I have dreams about those shoes. Black high-tops. Two white stripes." All Jeremy wants is a pair of those shoes, the ones everyone at school seems to be wearing. But Jeremy’s grandma tells him they don’t have room for "want," just "need," and what Jeremy needs are new boots for winter. When Jeremy’s shoes fall apart at school, and the guidance counselor gives him a hand-me-down pair, the boy is more determined than ever to have those shoes, even a thrift-shop pair that are much too small. But sore feet aren’t much fun, and Jeremy comes to realize that the things he has -- warm boots, a loving grandma, and the chance to help a friend -- are worth more than the things he wants.

Cover of Nobody Hugs a Cactus

Nobody Hugs a Cactus

by Carter Goodrich

A prickly loner slowly learns to let a friend get close.

Cover of Stick and Stone

Stick and Stone

by Beth Ferry

A stick and a stone become unlikely best friends who stand up for each other.

Cover of The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend

by Dan Santat

An imaginary friend sets out on his own to find the child who needs him.

Cover of Skunk and Badger

Skunk and Badger

by Amy Timberlake

An odd couple of roommates who become true friends, with a real apology at its heart.

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