Best Friends: 11/24/21

Best Friends by Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham (Illustrator) is the second book in the Friends graphic novel memoir series. It covers Hale's time in sixth grade and how she began to struggle with anxiety.

Originally I read this book a year ago. I clearly remember writing the review and mentioning LeUyen Pham's attention to detail especially on the amusement park that is such an important part to this book. When I went to look up my review I couldn't find it anywhere: not on my blog and not queued to post.

The start of Best Friends is full of anticipation. Shanon will be at the top of her school. She has a strong friend group and lots of games they like to play together. She's now friends with the most popular girl in the school. Nothing could possibly be better. Right?

But sixth grade brings changes. Her friends become more interested in boys than in make believe. Staying current with popular culture takes on new urgency for them too. Relatably, though, Shanon can't seem to keep up whatever is currently hot. What will come with age is the ability to let go of that need.

The other important detail of Best Friends is young Shanon finding a new outlet for her love of stories. At night she spends her free time writing fantasy stories inspired by her day to day life. She also finds a sympathetic ear with a new teacher who recognizes her potential as a writer.

The third and final book was recently released: Friends Forever (2021).

Four stars

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