20 best books on friendship for 8 year olds – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you on the lookout for a book on friendship for 8 year olds? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about friendship that will captivate and inspire your young reader. From heartwarming tales of friendship to exciting adventures that highlight the importance of loyalty and companionship, these books are perfect for nurturing empathy and understanding in your child. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the wonderful world of friendship for 8 year olds books!


The One and Only Ivan

by Katherine Applegate

The One and Only Ivan is an extraordinary book about friendship for 8 year olds that will captivate young readers from beginning to end. This heartwarming tale, written by Katherine Applegate, tells the story of Ivan, a gentle and intelligent gorilla, and his unlikely friendship with a young girl named Julia. Set in a shopping mall, Ivan spends his days painting and reflecting on his life, until a baby elephant named Ruby joins their small community. Together, Ivan, Julia, and Ruby embark on a journey of camaraderie, bravery, and hope, showing readers the power of compassion and the importance of standing up for what is right. This book on friendship for 8 year olds is filled with unforgettable characters, touching moments, and powerful messages that will resonate with young readers long after they turn the last page.

Wishtree

by Katherine Applegate

Wishtree by Katherine Applegate is a heartwarming and enchanting book about the power of friendship for 8 year olds. This delightful story will captivate young readers as they dive into the world of Red, a wise and ancient oak tree who serves as a gathering place for the neighborhood animals and humans alike. Red’s branches are adorned with wishes tied to them by people in the community, making it a ‘wish tree’. When a new family moves into the neighborhood, tensions rise and prejudice threatens to divide the community. It is up to Red and their loyal animal friends to teach the importance of acceptance, kindness, and the true meaning of friendship. With beautiful illustrations and a poignant message, Wishtree is a must-read for any 8 year old looking for a book about friendship.

The Wild Robot

by Peter Brown

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown is an incredible book on companionship for 8 year olds. This heartwarming story is about a robot named Roz who finds herself stranded on a deserted island. As she navigates through the challenges of her new environment, she learns the importance of forming connections and building friendships. Through the eyes of Roz, young readers will discover the power of love, acceptance, and camaraderie. So if you’re looking for a captivating book about companionship for 8 year olds, look no further than The Wild Robot!

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend

by Dan Santat

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat is a delightful and heartwarming book that explores the magical world of friendship for 8-year-olds. This enchanting tale takes readers on a journey through imagination and friendship, as they follow the adventures of Beekle, a lovable and brave imaginary friend.

The Invisible Boy

by Trudy Ludwig

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is a captivating book on companionship for 8-year-olds that will warm your heart. This extraordinary story revolves around Brian, a young boy who often goes unnoticed by his classmates. With its heartfelt message and beautiful illustrations, this book about camaraderie for 8-year-olds sheds light on the importance of empathy, inclusion, and kindness. Trudy Ludwig skillfully portrays the power of friendship for 8-year-olds, teaching them the value of reaching out to those who may feel invisible. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with relatable characters and valuable life lessons in this friendship for 8-year-olds book.

The Thing About Jellyfish

by Ali Benjamin

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is a captivating book on friendship for 8 year olds that will leave readers hooked from the very first page. This heartwarming tale explores the complexities of human connections and the power of forgiveness, making it a must-read book about friendship for 8 year olds. With its relatable characters and thought-provoking themes, The Thing About Jellyfish is a true gem in the world of friendship for 8 year olds books.

The Lemonade War

by Jacqueline Davies

The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies is a delightful book about camaraderie for 8-year-olds. Dive into the world of Evan and his younger sister, Jessie, as they embark on a thrilling adventure that tests their friendship to the core.

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

by Kate DiCamillo

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is a heartwarming tale that will captivate the hearts of young readers, making it the perfect book on friendship for 8 year olds. This enchanting story follows the extraordinary adventures of Edward Tulane, a beautiful china rabbit who embarks on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and love. Through his travels, Edward learns the true meaning of companionship, connection, and loyalty, making it an unforgettable book about friendship for 8 year olds. With its timeless themes and vivid storytelling, this is a friendship for 8 year olds book that will leave readers feeling inspired and eager to cherish the friendships in their own lives.

The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy

by Jeanne Birdsall

The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy

Looking for a delightful book about camaraderie for 8-year-olds? Look no further! The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy is the perfect choice.

This heartwarming story follows the adventures of four spirited sisters – Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty – as they embark on a summer vacation in the idyllic Arundel estate. With their widowed father busy writing a novel, the girls are left to their own devices, and their imagination knows no bounds.

As they explore the enchanting gardens and meet new friends, the Penderwick sisters soon form an unbreakable bond of friendship with a boy named Jeffrey. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of childhood, learn the importance of loyalty and forgiveness, and discover the true meaning of family.

With its charming characters, witty dialogue, and heartwarming moments, The Penderwicks is a book that captures the magic of childhood friendships. Readers will be captivated by the adventures and misadventures of the Penderwick sisters and their lovable pets, Hound and Cagney. This story is a celebration of the joy and resilience that comes from having friends who are always there for you.

So, if you’re looking for a book that will captivate 8-year-olds and teach them the value of friendship, The Penderwicks is the perfect choice. Dive into this delightful tale and join the Penderwick sisters on their unforgettable summer adventure!

The War That Saved My Life

by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is an extraordinary book on companionship for 8-year-olds that will take readers on a heartwarming journey of resilience, courage, and the power of true friendship for 8-year-olds.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon

by Kelly Barnhill

Introducing a magical and enchanting tale, The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is the perfect book on companionship for 8-year-olds. This mesmerizing story is brimming with captivating characters, spellbinding adventures, and the power of true connection.

The Best Man

by Richard Peck

The Best Man by Richard Peck is a heartwarming book on friendship for 8-year-olds. Set in a small town, this tale follows Archer, a young boy who is chosen to be the best man at his uncle’s wedding. Along the way, Archer learns valuable lessons about loyalty, trust, and the true meaning of friendship. This book about friendship for 8-year-olds is filled with relatable characters and memorable moments that will leave readers feeling inspired and uplifted. With its timeless message, The Best Man is a friendship for 8-year-olds book that is sure to resonate with young readers and remind them of the importance of having loyal and supportive friends.

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

by Karina Yan Glaser

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street is a heartwarming tale about the power of companionship and camaraderie. This delightful book on friendship for 8 year olds follows the adventures of the Vanderbeeker siblings as they navigate the ups and downs of life on their beloved street. From their cozy brownstone home, the Vanderbeekers embark on a mission to save their family from being evicted by their grumpy landlord. Along the way, they forge deep bonds with their neighbors and learn valuable lessons about the importance of community and sticking together. Packed with lovable characters, humor, and a touch of mischief, this book about friendship for 8 year olds is sure to captivate young readers and leave them with a renewed appreciation for the joy and warmth that comes from genuine connections with others.

The Last Kids on Earth

by Max Brallier

Welcome to the thrilling and action-packed world of The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier! This incredible adventure-filled book is perfect for 8-year-olds looking for a story about buddies and the power of companionship.

The Secret Keepers

by Trenton Lee Stewart

The Secret Keepers by Trenton Lee Stewart is a captivating book about camaraderie for 8-year-olds.

This enchanting tale follows the adventures of Reuben, a young boy with an extraordinary talent for sneaking around unnoticed. When he discovers a mysterious pocket watch that grants him the power to become invisible, Reuben finds himself caught up in a thrilling quest to uncover the secrets of his city.

As Reuben navigates through a web of hidden passageways and dangerous encounters, he forms unexpected friendships with a group of misfits who share his desire to protect the truth. Together, they embark on a heartwarming journey that celebrates the power of trust, loyalty, and teamwork.

The Secret Keepers is a must-read for young readers seeking an exhilarating book on camaraderie. With its intricate plot, relatable characters, and timeless themes, this friendship for 8-year-olds book will capture the imaginations of readers of all ages.

The Mysterious Benedict Society

by Trenton Lee Stewart

The Mysterious Benedict Society is a captivating tale that revolves around the theme of companionship for children aged 8 and up. This thrilling adventure is a perfect choice for those seeking a book about camaraderie and teamwork, ideal for eight-year-olds who are eager to explore the power of friendship.

The Terrible Two

by Mac Barnett and Jory John

The Terrible Two is a hilarious and mischievous book on friendship for 8 year olds that will have you laughing out loud from start to finish. This cleverly written story, brought to life by authors Mac Barnett and Jory John, takes readers on a wild journey with two best friends, Miles and Niles, as they navigate the ups and downs of their friendship.

The Friendship War

by Andrew Clements

Are you ready for an epic adventure filled with laughter, loyalty, and camaraderie? Then look no further than The Friendship War by Andrew Clements! This captivating book on camaraderie for 8 year olds will transport you to the world of Grace and Ellie, two best friends who find their friendship put to the ultimate test.

In this heartwarming tale about companionship for 8 year olds, Grace and Ellie stumble upon an old flag in an abandoned building. Little do they know that this discovery will ignite a fierce competition between their two fifth-grade classes. As their classmates become divided, Grace and Ellie must navigate the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and the power of unity.

With his signature wit and relatable characters, Andrew Clements weaves a tale that will resonate with young readers as they learn important lessons about trust, forgiveness, and the true meaning of friendship. This book about camaraderie for 8 year olds will have them eagerly turning the pages, eager to see how Grace and Ellie’s friendship evolves in the face of adversity.

So, if you’re searching for a friendship for 8 year olds book that will captivate and inspire, look no further than The Friendship War. Join Grace and Ellie on their unforgettable journey as they discover the true power of friendship, reminding us all that sometimes the greatest battles are fought and won with love and understanding.

The Year of Billy Miller

by Kevin Henkes

The Year of Billy Miller is a heartwarming book on friendship for 8 year olds that will make you smile, laugh, and maybe even shed a tear or two. Join Billy Miller as he navigates through the ups and downs of second grade, learning valuable lessons about love, loyalty, and the true meaning of friendship. With its relatable characters, witty dialogue, and delightful illustrations, this book about friendship for 8 year olds is sure to capture the hearts of young readers and leave them feeling inspired and empowered. So grab a copy of this friendship for 8 year olds book and embark on a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

The Adventures of Captain Underpants

by Dav Pilkey

The Adventures of Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey is an exciting and hilarious book about camaraderie and companionship for 8 year olds. With its vibrant illustrations and witty storytelling, this book is a must-read for young readers who enjoy tales of friendship and adventure. Join George and Harold as they navigate through a series of mischievous pranks and find a true friend in their superhero alter ego, Captain Underpants. This captivating book will not only entertain young readers but also teach them the value of friendship and the power of teamwork. Get ready for a laughter-filled journey that will leave you wanting more!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about friendship for 8 year olds are perfect companions for young readers who want to explore the joys and challenges of friendship. Whether it’s learning about empathy, celebrating diversity, or navigating through conflicts, these books offer valuable lessons and heartwarming stories that will resonate with children. So, grab a copy of these books and embark on a delightful journey filled with laughter, tears, and most importantly, the power of friendship.