Books Like Arthur and Buster's New Friend
Families who loved Arthur and Buster's New Friend by Marc Brown often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Arthur and Buster's New Friend by Marc Brown often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child comes home feeling replaced by a best friend's new playmate or excluded from a group. It addresses the sharp sting of social jealousy and the confusion that arises when a familiar friendship dynamic suddenly shifts. Through Arthur's relatable experience of being left behind by Buster, the story validates feelings of loneliness and hurt without being overly dramatic. As a transition book for 6 to 9 year olds, it provides a gentle bridge between picture books and longer novels. It is particularly helpful for parents wanting to model how to communicate hurt feelings constructively rather than reacting with anger. This story helps children realize that a friend making a new connection doesn't necessarily mean the old friendship is over, it just means the circle is growing.
