The Greatest "Friendship, Fiction, Children's books" Books Since 2000

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Friendship

The "Friendship" category of books focuses on the relationships between individuals who share a deep bond of mutual affection, trust, and support. These books explore the complexities of friendship, including the challenges and rewards of maintaining close connections over time. They often depict the joys and struggles of navigating the ups and downs of life with the help of loyal companions, and may touch on themes such as loyalty, forgiveness, and the power of human connection. Whether exploring the dynamics of childhood friendships or the complexities of adult relationships, books in this category offer readers a heartwarming and insightful look into the power of friendship.

Fiction

Children's books

Children's books are a category of literature that is specifically written and designed for children. These books are typically aimed at readers between the ages of 0-12 and cover a wide range of topics, from picture books for toddlers to chapter books for older children. Children's books often feature colorful illustrations, simple language, and engaging stories that are meant to entertain, educate, and inspire young readers. They can cover a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more, and are an essential part of a child's early education and development.

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  1. 1. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J. K Rowling

    In the fifth installment of this iconic series, the young wizard Harry Potter returns for his fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, only to discover that much of the wizarding world, including the Ministry of Magic, is in denial about the teenager's recent encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort. Harry is also beset by disturbing dreams while the sinister prison guards of Azkaban have been stationed at Hogwarts to protect the school, and Harry's budding abilities as a wizard are put to the test. Meanwhile, a secret society, the Order of the Phoenix, is working to fight Voldemort and his followers, and Harry's role in the coming conflict is becoming ever more significant.

  2. 2. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J. K Rowling

    In the sixth installment of the series, the protagonist returns for his sixth year at a magical school, where he excels in potions class with the help of an old textbook once belonging to the mysterious "Half-Blood Prince". As he delves deeper into his enemy's past through private lessons with the headmaster, he learns more about the Dark wizard's history and his own destiny. Amidst this, the school is no longer the safe haven it once was, and danger lurks within the castle walls. The year ends with a devastating loss, setting the stage for the final showdown.

  3. 3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K Rowling

    In the final installment of this popular series, the protagonist and his friends decide to leave their school to complete the mission left to them by their late headmaster - to destroy the remaining pieces of the antagonist's soul, hidden in various objects. As they journey through the wizarding world, they uncover the truth about the antagonist's past and the legend of the Deathly Hallows. Amidst the escalating war, they are captured and narrowly escape, leading to the ultimate battle at their school where many lives are lost. The protagonist learns he must sacrifice himself to truly defeat the antagonist, but is given a second chance at life and finally triumphs, ending the war. The story concludes with a glimpse into the peaceful future they have all earned.

  4. 4. Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman

    "Noughts and Crosses" is a thought-provoking novel set in a dystopian society where racial segregation is reversed. It follows the lives of two main characters: a girl from the ruling class (Crosses) and a boy from the underclass (Noughts). Despite their different backgrounds, they form a deep bond that eventually turns into a romantic relationship, challenging the societal norms and prejudices. The novel explores themes of love, racism, and power, offering a poignant commentary on the repercussions of societal divisions.

  5. 5. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

    The book is a young adult novel that explores the themes of nonconformity and self-expression through the story of an eccentric and free-spirited girl who calls herself Stargirl. She arrives at Mica High School in Arizona and immediately stands out for her unique behavior and homemade clothes. Her presence challenges the status quo and prompts varying reactions from the other students, ranging from admiration to hostility. As the protagonist captures the attention of the narrator, a boy named Leo, he finds himself drawn to her authenticity and spirit, but also struggles with his desire for social acceptance. The story delves into the impact of individuality on peer relationships and the courage it takes to be true to oneself in the face of conformity.

  6. 6. American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

    "American Born Chinese" by Gene Luen Yang is a graphic novel that weaves together three distinct storylines to explore themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and self-acceptance. The book follows the lives of Jin Wang, a Chinese-American boy struggling to fit in at school, the Monkey King, a mythical character striving for acceptance among his peers, and Danny, a white American teenager dealing with his Chinese cousin's visit. Through these interconnected narratives, the book delves into the complexities of being an immigrant and the challenges of navigating multiple cultural identities in America.

  7. 7. Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

    The book is a humorous portrayal of the protagonist's daily life as he navigates the trials and tribulations of middle school. Through his diary entries, the reader gets a glimpse into his struggles with family, friends, and school. With a unique blend of text and cartoons, the book provides an engaging and relatable depiction of the protagonist's attempts to gain popularity and survive the school year, despite his many embarrassing incidents and frequent misadventures.

  8. 8. Dustbin Baby by Jacqueline Wilson

    The book follows the emotional journey of April, a teenage girl who was abandoned in a dustbin as a baby. On her fourteenth birthday, she decides to skip school and embark on a quest to uncover her past. April's search for her biological mother and understanding of her identity leads her through various experiences, from her time in foster care to living with her adoptive mother. Throughout her day, she confronts the challenges of her past and the complexities of her feelings, ultimately seeking a sense of belonging and acceptance in a world where she has often felt discarded.

  9. 9. Last Stop On Market Street by Matt de la Peña

    "Last Stop On Market Street" is a heartwarming children's book that tells the story of a young boy named CJ and his grandmother as they embark on their weekly bus ride across town. Along the way, CJ learns valuable life lessons about gratitude, empathy, and the beauty in the world around him, ultimately realizing that the journey itself is just as important as the destination. With its vibrant illustrations and poignant narrative, this book celebrates the power of perspective and the joy of finding beauty in unexpected places.

  10. 10. Girls In Tears by Jacqueline Wilson

    In this poignant coming-of-age novel, a group of adolescent girls navigate the complexities of teenage life, dealing with issues such as friendship, family, love, and identity. The protagonist and her friends face a series of emotional challenges and misunderstandings that test the strength of their bond. As they confront their individual problems, from romantic dilemmas to family disputes, they learn valuable lessons about trust, honesty, and the importance of communication. Through tears and laughter, the girls learn to support each other, illustrating the resilience of friendship amidst the turmoil of adolescence.

  11. 11. Lola Rose by Jacqueline Wilson

    The book follows the tumultuous life of a young girl who, after her mother wins a substantial amount of money in a lottery, adopts the name Lola Rose. Their windfall allows them to escape an abusive home environment and start anew. However, their fresh start is threatened when her mother becomes seriously ill, leaving Lola Rose to care for her younger brother and confront adult responsibilities far beyond her years. The story is a poignant exploration of family, resilience, and the challenges of navigating unexpected hardships through the eyes of a child forced to grow up too quickly.

  12. 12. Out Of My Mind by Sharon M Draper

    "Out of My Mind" is a captivating and heart-wrenching story that follows the life of Melody, a brilliant and determined girl with cerebral palsy. Trapped in a body that does not cooperate with her brilliant mind, Melody struggles to communicate and is often overlooked by those around her. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she gains access to a communication device that allows her to finally express herself. Through perseverance and the support of her family and friends, Melody embarks on a journey to prove that she is more than her disability and has the ability to achieve greatness.

  13. 13. Rules Of Summer by Shaun Tan

    "Rules of Summer" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking picture book that explores the complex relationship between two young boys during their summer vacation. Through a series of surreal and imaginative illustrations, the book delves into themes of friendship, power dynamics, and the unspoken rules that govern their interactions. With its rich imagery and open-ended narrative, "Rules of Summer" invites readers to reflect on the nuances of human relationships and the lessons learned during the season of growth and change.

  14. 14. The One And Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

    This children's novel centers around Ivan, a captive gorilla who lives in a shopping mall, spending his days on display for the public and his nights conversing with his animal friends, including an elderly elephant named Stella and a stray dog named Bob. Ivan's routine existence is upended with the arrival of Ruby, a young elephant taken from the wild, prompting him to see his environment through new eyes. Inspired by Ruby's plight and Stella's passing wish, Ivan taps into his long-dormant creativity and empathy to hatch a plan to give Ruby a better life, leading to a poignant journey of friendship, art, and the quest for a place to call home.

  15. 15. A Kind Of Spark by Elle McNicoll

    "A Kind of Spark" tells the story of Addie, an 11-year-old girl with autism who is determined to fight for acceptance and understanding in her small town. Inspired by the historical injustices faced by those accused of witchcraft, Addie embarks on a mission to have a memorial erected in memory of the people who were wrongfully persecuted. Through her unwavering determination, Addie not only educates her community about neurodiversity but also discovers the power of her own voice. This heartfelt and empowering novel explores themes of identity, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

  16. 16. Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina

    In "Merci Suárez Changes Gears," readers follow the life of Merci Suárez, a sixth grader navigating the complexities of both adolescence and her scholarship at an elite private school. As she deals with typical issues like difficult friendships and school pressures, Merci also faces unique family challenges, particularly her grandfather’s worsening Alzheimer’s disease. The novel explores themes of identity, socio-economic differences, and the bonds of family, all through the lens of a relatable and resilient young protagonist.

  17. 17. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

    The book is a heartwarming and thought-provoking story about a young boy with a facial difference who, after being homeschooled for years, enters fifth grade at a mainstream school. The narrative explores his journey of facing the challenges of being different, dealing with bullying and the struggle to be accepted by his peers. It's a tale of empathy, resilience, and the importance of kindness, told through multiple perspectives that include the boy's own viewpoint as well as those of his classmates, family members, and others in his community. The story encourages readers to look beyond appearances and find the wonder in everyone's uniqueness.

  18. 18. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

    "The Day You Begin" is a heartfelt picture book that explores the feelings of loneliness, fear, and the courage to be oneself. Through relatable stories and beautiful illustrations, the book encourages readers to embrace their unique identities, celebrate their differences, and find the strength to connect with others, even when it feels difficult. It is a powerful reminder that everyone has a story worth sharing and that true connection begins when we have the courage to step out and be ourselves.

  19. 19. Doll Bones by Holly Black

    "Doll Bones" by Holly Black is a story about three friends, Zach, Poppy, and Alice, who embark on a journey to bury a haunted doll that they believe is controlling their lives. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and obstacles that test their friendship and force them to confront their fears. As they delve deeper into the mystery surrounding the doll, they begin to uncover secrets about themselves and their families. Ultimately, they must face their fears and find the courage to do what is right, even if it means facing the unknown.

  20. 20. A Snicker of Magic by Natalie Lloyd

    "A Snicker of Magic" is a heartwarming story about a girl named Felicity who has the ability to see words all around her. She and her mother move to a town called Midnight Gulch, where she meets a boy named Jonah and his family who are rumored to have magical powers. Felicity sets out to uncover the town's magical past and help Jonah's family break a curse that has plagued them for generations. Along the way, she discovers the power of friendship, family, and the magic of words.

  21. 21. The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, The Three Magical Children and their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz

    "The Inquisitor's Tale" is a medieval adventure story about three children with magical powers and their faithful dog, who embark on a dangerous journey across France to save their fellow Jews from persecution. Along the way, they encounter knights, monks, and even the King of France, while facing challenges that test their courage, loyalty, and faith. This book is a blend of history, mythology, and fairy tale, told in a humorous and engaging style that will captivate readers of all ages.

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download