Friend or Fiction

Friend or Fiction by Abby Cooper, published by Charlesbridge Publishing on October 8, 2019, is a 272-page work in English that explores the complexities of friendship through a lens of magical realism. The story follows Jade, a middle-schooler navigating the challenges of her father’s cancer diagnosis and the transient nature of her friendships in their small Colorado town. In her quest for companionship, Jade creates an imaginary friend named Zoe, who unexpectedly comes to life, prompting Jade to confront her feelings about friendship and self-identity.

Readers will find that the narrative delves into social themes surrounding friendship, particularly the dynamics of jealousy and self-acceptance. As Jade grapples with sharing her imaginary friend with the real world, she learns valuable lessons about authenticity and the nature of true friendship. This engaging tale presents a blend of fantasy and relatable challenges faced by young girls, making it a thoughtful exploration of personal growth and the importance of being true to oneself.