Friendship is a powerful and beautiful thing that can be celebrated through literature. Here are ten must-read novels that explore the bond of friendship in all its complexities.
1. “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” by Ann Brashares
– A heartwarming story about four best friends who share a pair of jeans that magically fits each of their unique body types, bringing them closer together despite the physical distance separating them.
2. “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson
– A timeless tale of two unlikely friends, Jess and Leslie, who create an imaginary kingdom in the woods where they go on adventures and confront their fears together.
3. “The Secret Life of Bees” by Sue Monk Kidd
– Set in the 1960s South, this novel follows young Lily Owens as she discovers the power of female friendship and sisterhood while on a journey of self-discovery.
4. “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
– A story of two childhood friends, Amir and Hassan, whose friendship is tested by betrayal, social class differences, and the turbulent political landscape of Afghanistan.
5. “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett
– A powerful novel that shines a light on the bond between African American maids and their white employers in 1960s Mississippi, showcasing the strength of friendship in the face of societal oppression.
6. “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman
– A heartwarming story about a grumpy old man who forms unexpected friendships with his quirky neighbors, showing that friendship can come in all shapes and sizes.
7. “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah
– A tale of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who must rely on each other for survival and support during the Nazi occupation of France, highlighting the unbreakable bond between siblings.
8. “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman
– Follow the journey of socially awkward Eleanor as she forms a deep and unexpected friendship with Raymond, showing that true friendship can bring healing and joy.
9. “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green
– A heartbreaking love story between two teenagers, Hazel and Augustus, who bond over their shared struggles with cancer, demonstrating the power of friendship in the face of adversity.
10. “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed
– A memoir of self-discovery and healing as Cheryl embarks on a solo journey along the Pacific Crest Trail, forming friendships with fellow hikers and finding solace in the camaraderie of the trail community.