The Power of Friendship: Children's Books Recommendations

As parents, we want our children to grow up happy, kind, and able to understand and manage their emotions. Recognizing feelings—both their own and those of others—is a crucial life skill, and the earlier kids start learning, the better. One of the best ways to foster this awareness is through stories. Books help children explore emotions, develop empathy, and understand what it means to be a good friend.

Friendship is one of the most valuable connections a child can experience. From navigating disagreements over toys to forming lifelong bonds, learning how to build and maintain friendships helps children grow into empathetic and resilient individuals. Books can be powerful tools in these moments—whether a child is feeling left out at preschool, struggling with a new friendship, or learning to share. Through stories, children can see themselves reflected in characters and gain insight into how to foster meaningful relationships.

Here are some wonderful books about friendship for different ages—from timeless classics to modern gems. Some are perfect for bedtime reading, some for independent first readers, and others can be revisited again and again as your child grows.

Many of these books have been translated into several languages, making them accessible for bilingual kids. Often they are easy to find at your local library — or they might already be patiently waiting on your shelves for the perfect moment. And if you're in the mood for something new, a visit to your local bookstore might just uncover a hidden gem.

1. All About Friends – Felicity Brooks

A delightful and engaging book that explores the nature of friendship through charming stories and vibrant illustrations. This book encourages toddlers to understand the importance of connection, sharing, and caring for one another.

2. Tales from Acorn Wood: Friends - Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler

A sweet and simple book about friendship, perfect for toddlers. With rhyming text and engaging illustrations, Vriendjes introduces young children to the joys of having and being a good friend.

3. Kikker en zijn vriendjes – Max Velthuijs

The Kikker series follows Frog and his friends through various adventures, highlighting themes of friendship, kindness, and teamwork. These heartwarming stories are ideal for introducing young children to emotions and relationships in an accessible way.

4. Jip en Janneke – Annie M.G. Schmidt

A Dutch classic, Jip and Janneke’s everyday adventures perfectly capture the essence of childhood friendship. These short, simple, and playful stories are ideal for young readers, showing the joy of companionship, problem-solving, and shared experiences in a way that resonates with toddlers and preschoolers.

5. Stories from Moominvalley – Tove Jansson

The Moomins are beloved all over the world, and their stories are filled with warmth, adventure, and deep friendships. These tales from Moominvalley introduce children to a world where kindness, understanding, and helping others are the foundation of true friendship. Through the adventures of Moomintroll and his friends, kids learn about loyalty, acceptance, and the importance of being there for one another.

6. Ronia, the Robber’s Daughter – Astrid Lindgren

This thrilling tale of adventure and bravery tells the story of Ronja, the daughter of a robber chief, who forms an unexpected friendship with Birk, the son of a rival clan. Despite the rivalry between their families, Ronja and Birk choose their bond over conflict, showing children the value of trust, understanding, and standing by those who matter.

7. Foxwood Tales – Cynthia and Brian Paterson

Set in the magical Foxwood Forest, these charming stories are full of heartwarming lessons about friendship, kindness, and helping one another. The animal characters in Foxwood navigate challenges and adventures together, teaching kids about teamwork, empathy, and problem-solving through friendship.

8. My Happy Life Series – Rose Lagercrantz

This series follows Dani, a little girl navigating school, friendships, and emotions. Through her ups and downs, children learn about the complexity of relationships, dealing with separation, and finding happiness even in difficult moments. The books are perfect for early readers, offering a gentle introduction to real-life emotions.

9. The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horsed – Charlie Mackesy

A poetic and deeply touching book that explores friendship and life’s lessons through simple yet profound words and illustrations. The beautiful bond between a boy, a mole, a fox, and a horse highlights kindness, vulnerability, and the importance of being there for each other. This book speaks to readers of all ages, making it a timeless read that parents and children can enjoy together.

10. Geluk voor Kinderen - Vriendschap – Leo Bormans

This beautifully illustrated book introduces little ones to the concept of friendship through engaging stories and adorable animal characters. Each tale teaches an important lesson about kindness, sharing, and understanding emotions, making it a wonderful first book about emotional intelligence.

Why Books About Friendship Matter

These stories do more than entertain — they open up a whole new world where kids can learn about care, connection, and understanding others. Each book offers its own unique window into building bonds and managing everyday challenges, whether it’s working through a disagreement or sharing a joyful moment. By diving into these adventures together, you’re helping your child discover the many ways friendship enriches life.