CHARACTER COUNTS: Real Friends

Real Friends
By Shannon Hale
Illustrated by LeUyen Pham
First Second, Roaring Brook Press, 2017. Graphic Novel, 207 p.

This is a graphic novel memoire that explores the friendship (both the good and the bullies) that young Shannon had while in elementary school. Plus it show some of the complexities with Shannon’s relationship to her family—especially her sister. This book is a great conversation starter for young readers who are navigating their own friendships and relationships with siblings. Also, it shows how being a friend, not just being popular, is important. Basically, this is a great place to start a discussion about what makes a person good and kind verses what tendencies make people mean or bullies. And let’s face it, pretty much everyone has to figure out these character traits in their friends at one point or another.

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