Real Friends

Real Friends (2017–present, First Second) is a graphic memoir series by author and artist Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham, chronicling the author’s childhood struggles with friendship, anxiety, and belonging. The series began with a single volume that captures the raw, everyday social dynamics of elementary school, from shifting cliques to the pain of feeling left out. Its warm, expressive artwork and honest, emotionally resonant storytelling have made it a touchstone for young readers navigating the complexities of real-life relationships.