Shannon says several times that all a person needs is one good friend. Do you agree with her? Why or why not? Consider the text and your own experiences when giving your answer.

Compare and contrast Real Friends with another book with similar themes. Some options could include Shirley and Jamila Save Their Summer by Gillian Goerz or Best Friends by Jacqueline Wilson.

Shannon grows up a lot throughout Real Friends. In your own words, explain how she changes. What is she like at the beginning of the story? How is she different by the end?