“I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was 12 – Jesus, did you?” As a teenager, I was obsessed with the 1986 film Stand By Me and its depiction of the loyalty and intensity that makes adolescent friendships so special. The novella on which it is based adds extra meat to the timeless story.
Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
This World War 2 drama unravels the intense and ultimately tragic friendship between pilot Maddie and Queenie, a spy who is caught by the Gestapo while undercover in enemy territory. Utterly gripping.
Piglettesby Clémentine Beauvais
When Mireille, Hakima and Astrid are awarded the bronze, silver and gold ‘trotters’ for being the ‘ugliest’ girls in the school, they unite and embark on an unforgettable road trip to Paris. The misfit friendship they develop along the way is a joy to witness.
Everything, Everythingby Nicola Yoon
Thanks to a rare form of Severe Combined Immunodeficiency, Maddy is confined to the four walls of house with only her mother for company. Until Olly moves next door and the two begin to communicate by email. A compelling, tender depiction of the transition between friendship and romance.
Fierce Fragile Heartsby Sara Barnard
Barnard is a master at capturing the complexities and contradictions of teenage friendships. This follow-up to her 2016 hit Beautiful Broken Things explores friendships old and new as care leaver Suzanne adapts to adult life.
Paper Avalanche by Lisa Williamson is out now (David Fickling, £7.99)
