Books on Friendship For Middle Schoolers: Discover the Top 20 in our 2024 Updated List

Are you looking for the perfect book on friendship for middle schoolers? Finding relatable stories about the ups and downs of friendships can be incredibly valuable for young readers. Whether they’re navigating new friendships, overcoming conflicts, or simply celebrating the joy of camaraderie, these books offer a range of perspectives and experiences. From timeless classics to contemporary favorites, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best friendship for middle schoolers books that are sure to resonate with young readers.

20 Best Books About Friendship For Middle Schoolers

Wonder

by R.J. Palacio

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a heartwarming and insightful book about the power of kindness and acceptance. The story follows Auggie Pullman, a young boy with a facial deformity, as he navigates the challenges of starting fifth grade at a new school. Through Auggie’s experiences, the reader is taken on a journey of empathy, friendship, and the beauty of embracing differences. This book on friendship for middle schoolers beautifully captures the complexities of fitting in, finding true friends, and the impact of bullying. Palacio’s poignant storytelling and relatable characters make Wonder a must-read for anyone looking for a touching and uplifting tale about the importance of compassion and understanding.

The One and Only Ivan

by Katherine Applegate

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is a heartwarming book about friendship for middle schoolers. This Newbery Medal-winning novel tells the story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who lives at a shopping mall with his friends, Stella the elephant and Bob the dog. When a young elephant named Ruby joins their group, Ivan is inspired to use his artistic talents to bring about change for all of them. Through Ivan’s perspective, readers will experience the power of empathy, compassion, and the importance of standing up for what is right. This book about friendship for middle schoolers is a poignant and moving tale that celebrates the bonds of friendship and the resilience of the human (and animal) spirit. The One and Only Ivan is a must-read for anyone looking for a story that will stay with them long after they finish the last page.

The War That Saved My Life

by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is a heartwarming and touching book about friendship for middle schoolers. Set during World War II, the story follows Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who escapes her abusive mother to find a new life in the English countryside. There, she forms a deep bond with Susan, who takes her in and becomes her guardian. As Ada learns to navigate her new surroundings and experiences the kindness of others, she also discovers the true meaning of friendship for middle schoolers. This beautifully written novel explores themes of resilience, love, and the power of relationships, making it a must-read for young readers looking for a poignant and uplifting story about overcoming adversity. The War That Saved My Life is a truly unforgettable book on friendship for middle schoolers.

Fish in a Tree

by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is a heartwarming and empowering book about friendship for middle schoolers. The story follows Ally, a young girl who struggles with dyslexia and feels like she doesn’t fit in at school. With the help of her new teacher, Mr. Daniels, and her classmates, Ally begins to discover her strengths and build confidence in herself. The book explores themes of acceptance, empathy, and the power of believing in oneself. Through Ally’s journey, readers will be inspired to embrace their uniqueness and appreciate the importance of supporting others. Fish in a Tree is a powerful and relatable story that celebrates the beauty of diversity and the impact of genuine connections. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a book about friendship for middle schoolers.

The Thing About Jellyfish

by Ali Benjamin

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is a captivating book on friendship for middle schoolers that follows the story of a young girl named Suzy as she grapples with the sudden loss of her best friend. Struggling to understand how their once strong bond could be shattered, Suzy sets out on a journey to uncover the truth behind her friend’s death. Throughout the book, Suzy navigates the complexities of friendship for middle schoolers and grapples with feelings of guilt, grief, and isolation. As she delves deeper into her investigation, Suzy finds solace and a sense of purpose in her fascination with jellyfish, drawing parallels between their mysterious nature and the unanswered questions surrounding her friend’s passing. This poignant and thought-provoking book about friendship for middle schoolers offers a powerful exploration of loss, forgiveness, and the enduring bonds that connect us.

Ghost

by Jason Reynolds

Ghost by Jason Reynolds is a compelling and heartwarming book about friendship for middle schoolers. The story follows Castle Cranshaw, also known as Ghost, as he navigates his way through the challenges of middle school while dealing with his troubled past. Ghost finds solace and purpose in joining a track team, where he forms unexpected and meaningful friendships with his teammates. The book beautifully explores the themes of companionship, camaraderie, and bond between the characters, making it a perfect book about friendship for middle schoolers. Jason Reynolds skillfully captures the raw emotions and complexities of adolescent friendships, making the story relatable and engaging for young readers. Ghost is a must-read for anyone looking for a friendship for middle schoolers book that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

The Crossover

by Kwame Alexander

The Crossover by Kwame Alexander is a compelling novel in verse that tells the story of twin brothers, Josh and Jordan, who are star basketball players. The book explores themes of brotherhood, family, and the complexities of growing up. With its rhythmic and engaging writing style, this book about friendship for middle schoolers is a captivating read that will resonate with young readers. Through the lens of sports and competition, the novel delves into the bonds of friendship for middle schoolers, and the challenges they face as they navigate relationships and the pressures of adolescence. Alexander’s lyrical prose and relatable characters make The Crossover a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming and thought-provoking story about the power of connection and camaraderie.

The Giver

by Lois Lowry

The Giver by Lois Lowry is a thought-provoking novel that explores a dystopian society where emotions and memories are suppressed. The story follows Jonas, a young boy who is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, a role that exposes him to the truth about his community’s past. As he begins to understand the complexities of emotions and human experiences, Jonas forms a deep bond with the Giver, the sole keeper of the community’s memories. This compelling tale delves into themes of connection, empathy, and the pursuit of truth, making it a captivating book about friendship for middle schoolers. Through Jonas’s journey, readers are challenged to contemplate the value of individuality and the importance of genuine human connections. The Giver is a powerful and thought-provoking book on friendship for middle schoolers that encourages readers to reflect on the significance of relationships and the impact of shared experiences.

The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a poignant and heart-wrenching book about the power of connection and companionship. Following the story of two teenagers, Hazel and Augustus, who meet at a cancer support group, the novel explores themes of love, loss, and the beauty of human relationships. This emotional rollercoaster of a book delves into the complexities of friendship for middle schoolers, showing the resilience and strength that can be found in the unlikeliest of places. With its raw and authentic portrayal of the ups and downs of life, The Fault in Our Stars is a perfect book about friendship for middle schoolers, teaching them valuable lessons about empathy, support, and the enduring bond of companionship.

Bridge to Terabithia

by Katherine Paterson

Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson, is a beloved book about friendship for middle schoolers. The story follows Jess and Leslie, two lonely misfits who form a deep bond and create an imaginary world called Terabithia in the woods. Together, they escape the challenges of their everyday lives and find solace in their friendship. However, when tragedy strikes, Jess must learn to cope with his loss and find the strength to continue on without Leslie. This poignant and moving novel explores the themes of companionship, imagination, and resilience, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming and emotionally resonant book about friendship for middle schoolers.

The Outsiders

by S.E. Hinton

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a timeless classic that delves into the themes of loyalty, camaraderie, and companionship. This book on friendship for middle schoolers follows the story of Ponyboy Curtis and his gang of “Greasers” as they navigate the challenges of growing up in a society that judges them based on their appearance and social status. As the Greasers clash with the affluent “Socs,” they rely on each other for support, forming unbreakable bonds of friendship. The novel beautifully captures the fierce loyalty and deep connections that develop among the characters, making it a compelling book about friendship for middle schoolers. Through its engaging narrative and relatable characters, The Outsiders teaches valuable lessons about the importance of friendship and the strength that comes from standing together in the face of adversity.

Holes

by Louis Sachar

Holes by Louis Sachar is a captivating novel that revolves around the theme of friendship for middle schoolers. The story follows Stanley Yelnats, a teenage boy who is sent to a juvenile detention center, Camp Green Lake, for a crime he didn’t commit. At the camp, the boys are tasked with digging holes in the desert as a form of punishment. As Stanley forms unexpected friendships with his fellow inmates, he uncovers the camp’s dark secrets and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. This book about friendship for middle schoolers explores the power of camaraderie, resilience, and loyalty in the face of adversity. With its engaging plot and relatable characters, Holes is a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling tale of companionship and perseverance.

The Lightning Thief

by Rick Riordan

The Lightning Thief is an electrifying adventure that follows Percy Jackson, a twelve-year-old boy who discovers that he is a demigod—half-human, half-Greek god. As he navigates through a world of mythological creatures and ancient prophecies, Percy must embark on a quest to prevent a war among the gods. Along the way, he forms an unlikely friendship with other demigods, facing challenges and dangers together. This book on friendship for middle schoolers explores themes of loyalty, trust, and teamwork, as Percy and his friends rely on each other to overcome obstacles and uncover their true potential. With its action-packed plot and relatable characters, this book about friendship for middle schoolers will captivate young readers and leave them eager to continue on Percy’s epic journey in the rest of the series.

The Diary of a Young Girl

by Anne Frank

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank is a poignant and timeless book on friendship for middle schoolers. It is a firsthand account of a young girl’s experiences and emotions while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. Anne Frank’s diary captures the essence of human connection, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity. Through her intimate and introspective writing, readers are transported to the secret annex where Anne and her family lived in hiding. The diary offers a powerful insight into the complexities of relationships, the importance of empathy, and the enduring nature of friendship for middle schoolers. Anne’s unwavering spirit and unwavering belief in the goodness of people make this book about friendship for middle schoolers a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human experience.

The Maze Runner

by James Dashner

The Maze Runner is an exhilarating and suspenseful young adult novel that revolves around the theme of camaraderie. Set in a dystopian world, the story follows a group of teenage boys who are trapped in a mysterious maze with no memory of their past. As they try to escape and uncover the secrets of the maze, they build strong bonds of loyalty and support, demonstrating the true essence of companionship. This gripping tale of teamwork and trust is a perfect book about friendship for middle schoolers. The characters’ unwavering determination and willingness to sacrifice for each other’s well-being will inspire young readers and emphasize the importance of unity and collaboration. With its fast-paced plot and relatable characters, The Maze Runner is an ideal choice for readers seeking an action-packed friendship for middle schoolers book.

The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a gripping dystopian novel that follows the story of 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen as she volunteers to take her sister’s place in a brutal televised competition. Set in a world where the government forces 24 children to fight to the death, the novel explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and camaraderie. As Katniss navigates the deadly arena, she forms alliances and discovers the true meaning of companionship and loyalty. This book about friendship for middle schoolers is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of trust and collaboration in the face of adversity. With its fast-paced action and compelling characters, The Hunger Games is sure to captivate young readers and spark discussions about the importance of allies and support in challenging situations.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

by J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is a captivating tale of a young boy who discovers he is a wizard and is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As Harry navigates this new world, he forms strong bonds with his classmates, Ron and Hermione, and they work together to unravel the mystery of the Sorcerer’s Stone. This enchanting book is filled with magic, adventure, and the importance of camaraderie, making it a perfect book about friendship for middle schoolers. J.K. Rowling weaves a spellbinding story that explores themes of loyalty, bravery, and the power of unity. Readers will be drawn into Harry’s journey as he learns the value of true friends and the strength that comes from standing together in the face of adversity.

Charlotte’s Web

by E.B. White

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White is a beloved classic that tells the heartwarming story of the unlikely friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. This enchanting book on friendship for middle schoolers explores themes of companionship, loyalty, and compassion. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte comes to his rescue with her clever web-spinning abilities, and together they teach readers about the power of true friendship and the importance of kindness. The novel beautifully captures the innocence and purity of childhood friendships and the profound impact they can have on our lives. With its timeless message, Charlotte’s Web continues to inspire readers of all ages with its touching tale of friendship and selflessness.

Matilda

by Roald Dahl

Matilda by Roald Dahl is a captivating tale about a brilliant young girl who discovers her extraordinary powers. Matilda loves to read and has a kind heart, but she faces challenges at home and at school. Her parents neglect her, and the cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, terrorizes the students. Despite these obstacles, Matilda finds solace in books and uses her intelligence to stand up for herself and her friends. This heartwarming book on friendship for middle schoolers encourages readers to embrace their differences and find strength in their friendships. With themes of loyalty, companionship, and support, this book about friendship for middle schoolers is sure to inspire young readers to believe in themselves and stand up for what is right.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

by C.S. Lewis

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is a timeless fantasy novel that transports readers to the magical land of Narnia. Four siblings, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy, discover a hidden world through a wardrobe and encounter talking animals, mythical creatures, and a powerful lion named Aslan. The story is filled with adventure, courage, and sacrifice as the children join forces with the creatures of Narnia to overthrow the White Witch and restore peace to the land. This classic tale is not only a thrilling adventure but also a heartwarming book on friendship for middle schoolers, as it highlights the bonds of loyalty, bravery, and camaraderie between the characters. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a must-read book about friendship for middle schoolers, offering a captivating blend of fantasy and profound lessons on the value of unity and solidarity.

Conclusion

Friendship is such an important part of the middle school experience, and these 20 books about Friendship For Middle Schoolers are perfect for exploring the ups and downs of these crucial relationships. From heartwarming stories of lifelong bonds to tales of navigating new friendships, these books offer something for every young reader. Whether they’re looking for a laugh-out-loud read or a tearjerker, these books are sure to resonate with middle schoolers as they navigate the complexities of friendship. So grab one of these books and dive into the world of middle school friendships!

Which Friendship For Middle Schoolers book is best?

The best book on Friendship For Middle Schoolers can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. Wonder by R.J. Palacio,
  2. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate,
  3. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Friendship For Middle Schoolers?

For those looking to learn about Friendship For Middle Schoolers, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. Wonder by R.J. Palacio,
  2. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate,
  3. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley,
  4. Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt,
  5. The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin,
  6. Ghost by Jason Reynolds,
  7. The Crossover by Kwame Alexander,
  8. The Giver by Lois Lowry,
  9. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green,
  10. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

These books offer a range of perspectives on Friendship For Middle Schoolers, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books on Friendship For Middle Schoolers?

The best books on Friendship For Middle Schoolers include:

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Friendship For Middle Schoolers are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Friendship For Middle Schoolers books of all time?

Choosing the best Friendship For Middle Schoolers books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include