Real Friends gets 4.5 Stars {graphic novel, memoir, middle grade fiction, 3rd-7th grade}

Do you have a girl that is in the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, or 7th grade?  If the answer is yes, then you need to have your child read Real Friends by Shannon Hale.  

This graphic novel memoir is a quick read, full of pictures, and easy to relate to.  Whether you are a child in the midst of friendship dilemmas, dealing with bullies, doubting yourself, struggling with anxiety, frustrated with siblings, and pretty much experiencing the ups and downs of life when you are a kid.  

As adults we often think being a kid is easy.  Sure, kids don't have to pay bills, go to work, and deal with aging bodies.  However, after reading this book I was reminded that being a kid isn't always easy.    

This may be my absolute favorite dedication page.  I don't think there's a kid, or adult that looks back at their childhood, that can't relate.  It's a beautiful dedication and a wonderful reminder to all readers.

In regards to wonderful things about this book, I do love the illustrations by LeUyen Pham.  Pham did a fantastic job with Real Friends; the colorful illustrations fit the feel of the book.  Pham also illustrated the Princess in Black series which is a wonderful Early Reader series (aka 1st and 2nd graders).  

Overall, I loved the messages this book was full of.  I loved how quick of a read this book is which makes it perfect for readers and reluctant readers alike. I love that I can think of more than 10 girls that would greatly benefit with reading this book, and I plan on purchasing this book (sorry husband, I still have a book buying problem) for my girls to read when they get older.  Actually, we'll probably read it together first.  

Real Friends gets 4.5 out of 5 stars in my book review.  This book is very much a memoir about Shannon Hale's childhood.  It quickly goes through the elementary school years of her life.  I love that she went through those years quickly.  The one thing I  feel could've been done better was the storyline.  I realize this is a memoir, but a well done memoir still has a great storyline.  

The lack of storyline is my main issue with Real Friends.  Though, the messages this book teaches in a quick graphic novel format still makes a great addition to any elementary school library, middle school collection, and many home libraries.  

I'm a big fan of Shannon Hale.  I've read all of her books, and have enjoyed most of them.  Though, this book is my favorite for reluctant readers aka kids that don't like to read.  Definitely go check Real Friends out.  

Have you read any Shannon Hale books?  Any favorites? 


Happy Middle Grade Graphic Novel Memoir Reading!


Real Friends by Shannon Hale
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Best For: 8 to 13 years old, 3rd to 7th grade
Worth a Check Out: Yes.
Buy It or Not: If you have a girl, definitely Yes. 
Read Aloud: Graphic Novels aren't the best for read alouds, but you could read it along side your daughter as a nightly read aloud. 
Lesson Ideas: Friendship, Bullying, Sibling Relationships, Anxiety