logo

42 pages 1 hour read

Real Friends

Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Shannon Hale, Illustr. LeUyen Pham

Real Friends

Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

220

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction

Setting

Utah • 1980s

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

GN290L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Real Friends by Shannon Hale and illustrated by LeUyen Pham is a graphic memoir that follows Shannon's journey from kindergarten to fifth grade in Salt Lake City. She navigates the complexities of friendship, coping with bullying and feeling like an outsider both at school and at home. Along the way, Shannon makes and loses friends, ultimately finding some who accept her for who she is. This book addresses bullying and mental health difficulties.

Heartwarming

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Real Friends by Shannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham, resonates with readers through its authentic depiction of childhood friendship dynamics and emotional struggles. The vivid illustrations complement the narrative effectively. Some reviews note that its focus on social pain may be intense for younger audiences. Overall, it’s a compelling, relatable read for middle-graders.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Real Friends?

Fans of Smile by Raina Telgemeier and Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson will cherish Real Friends by Shannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham. This graphic novel appeals to middle-grade readers navigating friendships and social dynamics, blending honesty and heart with vibrant, engaging illustrations.

Character List

Shannon

The protagonist and narrator, a shy girl with red hair who enjoys creating imaginative stories and navigates the challenges of forming friendships amidst bullying.

Shannon's older sister, who is often frustrated with Shannon and struggles to manage her own social challenges at school.

A member of The Group and Shannon's main bully, who is driven by jealousy and insecurity but maintains a close bond with Jen.

Shannon's first and best friend, who is blonde and pretty; their friendship is tested as Adrienne expands her social circle.

The leader of The Group, who is admired for her confidence and beauty but eventually seeks a more genuine friendship dynamic.

Older friends Shannon makes after leaving The Group; they model a new, kinder way of being popular and help Shannon gain confidence.

A younger student who also experiences bullying, shares vulnerable moments with Shannon, and represents hope for kinder connections.

Book Details
Pages

220

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction

Setting

Utah • 1980s

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

GN290L

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.