Iconic Friendships KS2 / KS3

At the heart of many stories are incredible friendships that inspire the imagination and help develop empathy and understanding. Friendships come in all shapes and sizes and here you'll find a collection of stories featuring iconic friendships, from classic tales to recent debuts.

The Wind In The Willows by Rashmi Sirdeshpande, Jojo Clinch (Illustrator)

Enter the mischievous world of Toad of Toad Hall, and join Moly and Ratty on their riverside adventures. When Moly gets lost in the Wild Wood, Ratty and kind old Badger are there to rescue him. But when Mr Toad is sent to prison and his beloved Toad Hall is taken over by stoats and weasels, will his friends be able to save the day? The classic story, reimagined as a fully illustrated, beautiful picture book, perfect to share with a new generation.

The Danger Gang by Tom Fletcher, Shane Devries (Illustrator)

Franky can't wait to move to his new town - although he wishes he didn't have to leave his best friend Dani behind. But everything changes after the storm, when strange green lightning and powerful thunder crash down on the town. From that night on, the kids who live on Franky's street start to change. One by one, they become a little odd. A little unusual. A little... magical. Franky's always wanted to be part of an amazing gang - just like his hero, super-spy Zack Danger! And soon, he realises that there's real danger in store for himself and his new friends. And so the Danger Gang is born...

The Last Firefox by Lee Newbery and Laura Catalàn

Between bullies at school and changes at home, Charlie Challinor finds life a bit scary. And when he's made guardian of a furry fox cub called Cadno, things get a whole lot scarier.

Because Cadno isn't just any fox: he's a firefox - the only one of his kind - and a sinister hunter from another world is on his trail.

Swept up into an unexpected adventure to protect his flammable friend, Charlie's going to need to find the bravery he never thought he had, if he's going to save the last firefox...

The Dream Team: Jaz Santos vs. the World by Priscilla Mante

A relatable, inclusive story about families, unlikely friendships and girl power. Perfect for fans of Ella on the Outside and Jacqueline Wilson.

Rockstar Detectives by Adam Hills

When a priceless painting goes missing, Charley - a 12-year-old viral singing sensation - and her best friend George - camera whizz and budding comedian - are shocked to discover they're the prime suspects.

Now Charley and George have to prove they're not international criminals - all while nailing a stellar European tour and keeping up with their homework! But as news of high-profile heists hits the headlines wherever they go, Charley and George keep finding themselves in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.

Can they solve these baffling crimes and save themselves, or will their shot for stardom be over almost as soon as it's begun?

The Secret of Haven Point by Lisette Auton

Washed up as a baby beside a remote lighthouse and raised by a mermaid, Alpha Lux was the first foundling at Haven Point. Now the lighthouse is a ramshackle home for any disabled person who needs somewhere to belong. Looting from passing ships to make a living, they call themselves the Wrecklings, and for the children of Haven Point life is spent adventuring on the wild shore (and getting into trouble with the grown-ups).

But when Alpha spots a strange light up on the headland, she realizes that her beloved family are in danger of being discovered by Outsiders.

With their home under threat, the Wrecklings must decide what kind of future they want . . . and what they're willing to do to get it.

Charlotte's Web by E. B. White

Wilbur the pig's life has already been saved by Fern, but when he is sold to her uncle, he realises his life is in even more danger. Enter Charlotte A. Cavatica, a beautiful large grey spider. Charlotte is determined to keep Wilbur from the chopping block, and comes up with an ingenious way to do just that. Charlotte's Web is a classic tale of friendship, bravery and some animal magic.

Murder Most Unladylike by Robin Stevens

Frostheart by Jamie Litter

Ash must board the  Frostheart, a sleigh packed full of daring explorers  if he's to find his family. Bursting with brilliant illustrated characters, heart-stopping adventure and tons of laughs, this magical tale is perfect for fans of NevermoorFrozen and How to Train Your Dragon!

The Unadoptables by Hana Tooke, Ayesha L. Rubio (Illustrator)

In the autumn of 1886, Elinora Gassbeek, matron of the Little Tulip Orphanage discovers five new babies in most extraordinary circumstances:

One in a tin toolbox.
One in a coal bucket.
One in a picnic hamper.
One in a wheat sack.
And finally, one in a coffin-shaped basket.

Those babies were Lotta, Egbert, Fenna, Sem and Milou. Growing up together, these five children know their individuality is what makes them so special - and so determined to stay together.  But is their real home - and their real family - already closer than they realise?