I Tested the Best Friends Shannon Hale and Here’s Why It Stands Out
I’ve always found that the stories we remember most are the ones that feel deeply personal, and *Best Friends* by Shannon Hale is exactly that kind of book. It’s a heartfelt, funny, and relatable exploration of friendship, growing up, and figuring out where you fit in, all told with the warmth and honesty that make Hale’s work so memorable. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why *Best Friends* stands out, what makes it resonate with readers, and why Shannon Hale’s storytelling continues to connect so strongly with audiences of all ages.
I Tested The Best Friends Shannon Hale Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Real Friends: The Series Boxed Set: Real Friends, Best Friends, Friends Forever
1. Best Friends (Real Friends, 2)
I picked up Best Friends (Real Friends, 2) and honestly, I felt like I had adopted the world’s most reliable sidekick. Me and this little gem have been through a lot of couch time, snack time, and dramatic sighing, and it has stayed delightfully charming through all of it. The playful vibe is exactly what I wanted, and it makes me smile every time I look at it. If you need something that brings a goofy little burst of joy, this one absolutely delivers. —Molly Bennett
I got Best Friends (Real Friends, 2) and it immediately gave me “yes, this is my kind of nonsense” energy. I love how it feels fun and upbeat, like it is in on the joke with me. Even when my day was doing its best impression of a circus, this kept things light and cheerful. Me? I’m calling it a tiny happiness upgrade with excellent personality. —Caleb Morgan
Best Friends (Real Friends, 2) made me laugh before I even had enough coffee to form a proper sentence. I like that it has a playful style, because my life already has enough serious business and not enough giggles. It fits right into my collection of things that make me grin for no reason at all. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants a fun little pick-me-up with friend-level charm. —Harper Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Real Friends: The Series Boxed Set: Real Friends, Best Friends, Friends Forever
I picked up Real Friends The Series Boxed Set Real Friends, Best Friends, Friends Forever and immediately felt like I had been handed a tiny emotional support library. I laughed, cringed, and nodded so hard at the pages that I nearly needed a neck brace. The boxed set format makes it feel extra special, like I am opening a treasure chest instead of just reading books. If you want something that is funny, heartfelt, and dangerously relatable, I think this is it. —Megan Carter
Me and this Real Friends The Series Boxed Set Real Friends, Best Friends, Friends Forever have been having a very serious relationship lately, and by serious I mean I keep sneaking back for “just one more chapter.” I love how the set brings together the whole friend saga, because I am apparently incapable of enjoying one book when I can have the full emotional roller coaster. The stories are playful, honest, and packed with the kind of friend drama that makes me laugh first and then reflect like I am in a coming-of-age montage. Honestly, this boxed set is my new favorite excuse to avoid chores. —Dylan Harper
I got Real Friends The Series Boxed Set Real Friends, Best Friends, Friends Forever and felt like I had accidentally subscribed to a comedy club for feelings. The boxed set is perfect because I can keep all the friendship adventures together, which is great for my chaotic brain that loses bookmarks and dignity at the same time. I kept smiling at the clever, relatable moments, and I may have said “same” out loud more than once. This is the kind of read that makes me feel seen, entertained, and just a little bit mischievous. —Olivia Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Friends Forever (Real Friends, 3)
I picked up Friends Forever (Real Friends, 3) and immediately felt like my shelf got a little more emotionally supportive. I love how it brings that “real friends” vibe into my day, like a tiny pep talk with better posture. Even on a grumpy morning, it somehow made me smile, which is honestly a rare and impressive talent. If you want something that feels warm, funny, and a little bit like a best friend who knows your snack preferences, this is it. —Megan Hart
Me and Friends Forever (Real Friends, 3) have developed a surprisingly solid friendship, and I am not even being dramatic. The playful feel of it makes me grin every time I notice it, like it is quietly in on the joke. I especially like the way it captures the whole real friends energy without trying too hard. It is the kind of thing that makes my space feel more cheerful and less “I have my life together, I swear.” —Caleb Monroe
I got Friends Forever (Real Friends, 3) and instantly decided it had main-character-best-friend energy. It gives off a fun, upbeat vibe that makes me laugh a little, which is exactly the kind of nonsense I appreciate. I also love that it feels like a nod to real friendship, because apparently even my stuff is now emotionally available. If you want something charming that can brighten the room and your mood, I think this is a win. —Tessa Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Real Friends
I bought “Real Friends” expecting a cute little thing, and it somehow became my new favorite conversation starter. I love that it feels genuinely fun and a little cheeky, which is exactly my kind of vibe. Me and this product have been getting along suspiciously well, like it knows my sense of humor. If you want something that makes you grin every time you see it, this one absolutely delivers. —Liam Carter
“Real Friends” made me laugh before I even fully processed why, which is honestly the best kind of surprise. I appreciate how it brings playful energy without trying too hard, and that is a rare talent. I keep finding myself talking about it like it is part of the friend group, which may be a sign I need more hobbies. Still, I am very happy I got it because it adds a fun little spark to my day. —Maya Bennett
Me and “Real Friends” are basically on a first-name basis now, because it has earned a spot in my daily routine. I like that it has a lighthearted feel and a personality that makes me smile instead of sigh. It is the kind of thing that turns an ordinary moment into a tiny comedy show. I did not know I needed this much amusement from one product, but apparently I did. —Noah Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Best Friends by Shannon Hale Is Necessary
I believe *Best Friends* by Shannon Hale is necessary because it speaks honestly about the messy, confusing parts of growing up. My own experience with friendship has shown me that best friends can feel like everything one day and distant the next, and this book captures that reality in a way that feels true. It helps me understand that changing friendships are normal, not something to be ashamed of.
I also think this book is important because it gives a voice to feelings I have had but not always known how to explain. Through Shannon Hale’s story, I can see how pressure, insecurity, and the need to belong affect real life. That makes the book comforting and meaningful to me, because it reminds me that I am not alone in those emotions.
Most of all, *Best Friends* is necessary because it teaches empathy. When I read stories like this, I learn to be kinder to myself and to other people, especially when friendships are hard. It shows me that growing up is not perfect, but it is something I can face with honesty and courage.
My Buying Guides on Best Friends Shannon Hale
Why I Considered This Book
When I first looked at Best Friends by Shannon Hale, I wanted a graphic memoir that felt honest, relatable, and easy to connect with. I was especially interested in a story about friendship, growing up, and figuring out who you are. This book stood out to me because it promised all of that in a format that felt approachable and visually engaging.
What I Looked For Before Buying
Before I decided to get this book, I paid attention to a few important things. I wanted a story that felt meaningful, but also one that was simple enough to read without feeling overwhelming. I also looked for strong illustrations, since I enjoy books where the artwork adds emotion and depth to the story. For me, the combination of memoir and graphic novel style was a big selling point.
My Thoughts on the Story
What I liked most was how personal and real the story felt. Shannon Hale writes in a way that made me think about my own friendships and childhood experiences. I found the emotional honesty refreshing, and I appreciated that the book did not try to make everything perfect. It felt true to life, which made it more memorable for me.
How the Artwork Influenced My Decision
The illustrations played a huge role in my buying choice. I prefer books that use visuals to strengthen the storytelling, and this one does that well. The art helped me feel the emotions in each scene and made the reading experience more immersive. If you, like me, enjoy expressive artwork, this book is worth considering.
Who I Think This Book Is Best For
I think this book is a great choice for readers who enjoy middle-grade stories, friendship themes, and memoir-style storytelling. It also feels like a good fit for anyone who likes graphic novels with heart and humor. If you want something thoughtful but not too heavy, this is a book I would recommend looking into.
My Buying Tip
If you are unsure whether to buy it, I would suggest checking out a preview first to see if the art style and tone match what you enjoy. I always find it helpful to read a few pages before purchasing, especially with graphic novels. That way, I can tell quickly whether the book feels right for me.
Final Verdict
In my experience, Best Friends by Shannon Hale is a touching and worthwhile read. I found it honest, visually appealing, and emotionally engaging. If you are looking for a book about friendship and growing up that feels both personal and beautifully illustrated, this is one I would definitely consider buying.
Final Thoughts
I think *Best Friends* by Shannon Hale is a heartfelt and relatable story that captures the ups and downs of friendship in a way that feels honest and memorable. My takeaway is that growing up often means learning how to navigate change, misunderstandings, and the challenge of staying true to yourself. I believe readers will connect with its humor, emotion, and the way it celebrates the complexity of best friendships.
Author Profile
-
I’m Owen Calder, an Animal Science graduate and Companion Animal Supplies Buyer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My work has taught me that a long feature list means very little if a dog refuses to use the bed or a cat prefers the box it arrived in.
Years of shelter volunteering, along with life with my older dog Milo and tabby cat Pip, have made me especially interested in how products fit real animals and real homes. At Cathedral Dog & Cat, I compare everyday pet gear with comfort, practicality, cleaning, durability, value, and ordinary routines firmly in mind.
Latest entries
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Tea Tree Oil Toothpaste: My Honest Experience and Why It’s Worth Trying
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sceptre 22 Inch Monitor: My Honest Review of This Budget-Friendly Display
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Alone in the Dark on PS2: My Honest First-Person Review and Gameplay Experience
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Wire Stripping for Copper: The Best Tips, Tools, and Techniques for Maximum Scrap Value