Books celebrating female friendship for 8+

Beattie, Mimi and Zelda will change the way you see mermaids forever as they attempt to save their home of Swirlyshell in this delightfully silly story from the author of Witch Wars.

It’s Lottie Brooks’ second term at Kingswood High and she is determined to be less awkward and more resilient – at least that’s the plan. Written in the form of a diary that shows all the awkwardness of teenage life, this laugh-out-loud book is perfect for fans of Louise Rennison.

Jummy is thrilled to get a place at top Nigerian boarding school The River School, but how can she make sure her best friend Caro gets to go there too? An absolutely joyous book that will put a wide smile on my face. 

In 2032, Polly dives into the world of the submerged town Syndercombe in 1952, where Nellie has set herself a swimming challenge she can only complete with the help of two good friends. Another superb story from the Queen of Historical Fiction.

Centred around some typical pre-teen issues, including friendship, loyalty, bullying and sibling relationships, the book also sensitively explores the difficult topics of bereavement and parental separation.

It’s really exciting to be starting at Roller Derby summer camp, but less so when Astrid finds herself doing it alone. A fantastic full-colour graphic novel about friendship and awesome, strong girls, this a genuine joy to read. 

There’s been a rather shocking murder at Deepdean School for Girls – but luckily, young detectives Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong are on the case!

The sequel to Front Desk – Mia’s best friend is from an undocumented migrant family, and it means she may be thrown out of school. Mia and the Calivista family band together to help her.