The Power of Friendship

Curated by: Kayla Thompson, Adult Services, Cape Girardeau Public Library

February is the month centered around love and there are many different types of love: familial, friendship, romantic, etc. Here are some books that highlight the power of friendship:

A Man Called Ove by Frederik Backman: This story follows the life of a grouchy older gentleman who just wants life to come to an end. Unfortunately – or maybe fortunately- for him, his neighbors just can’t seem to leave him alone. It’s a story about the power of friendship and the importance of human connection.

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin: This book follows two childhood friends, Sam Masur and Sadie Green, as they reconnect after years of being apart over video games. The story encompasses their lives and friendship over the course of thirty years. There are ups and downs, good times and bad times, trust and betrayal – everything you need for a gripping new story!

Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Rebecca Wells: I grew up watching the 2002 movie adaptation of this book. You know the one with Sandra Bullock, Ellen Burstyn, Maggie Smith, and James Garner. Perfection! This book is the first in the Ya-Ya trilogy which follows the Walker family and the chaotic cavalry of the Ya-Yas.

Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg: Another movie adaptation classic, this book begins with Evlyn, a middle-aged woman looking for human connection during a time of crisis. She finds a friend in Mrs. Threadgoode who spins the wonderful tale of best friends Idgie and Ruth and the cafe that the two owned together in the 1930s. It’s a good mix of historical fiction, love, and friendship that is sure to tug at the heartstrings.