Friendship, a timeless theme, is beautifully portrayed in numerous children's books from around the world. The concept of a 'best friend' can be seen in various contexts and traditions, embodying diverse meanings across cultures. While classic tales like Charlotte's Web and contemporary stories like Wonder or Harry Potter emphasizes friendship as the crux of their narratives, they also offer a unique dip into the cultural backgrounds the authors originate from. Today, we're embarking on a global journey through children's literature, unearthing the essence of this beautiful bond - the Best Friend, in different cultures.

The French Connection

Let's start our journey in France with Antoine de Saint-Exupery's 'The Little Prince'. This iconic tale is built around the beautiful friendship between the little prince and the fox. Despite a distance that separates the two dramatically distinct worlds they each belong to, their bond transcends physical constraints exemplifying the French ideal, 'l'ami pour la vie' - a friend for life.

East Encounters West

Moving towards the East, Suki Kim's 'The Interpreter', a Korean-origin children's book narrates a touching tale of friendship between su-ji, a young interpreter and a foreigner visiting from the West. Suki Kim delicately presents the essence of 'jeong' - a deep emotional bond in Korean culture, signifying how friendship isn't about shared experiences alone, but a heartfelt emotional connection.

Friendship, Down Under

From Australia, Mem Fox's 'Possum Magic' shows friends Hush and Grandma Poss embark on an adventure-filled journey. Curiously, Australian indigenous culture reveres the bond of friendship as one respecting individuality and personal space. The friendship of Hush and Grandma Poss subtly alludes to this practice, providing insight on Australian friendship.

Going North

Inuit tales teach us how friendships can withstand the harshest of climates and bring warmth to the coldest nights. 'Very Last First Time' by Jan Andrews, an Inuit tale of a young Eskimo girl, showcases friendship as survival tool in extreme conditions.

Friends Forever, in Africa

In the heart of Africa, 'Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale' by John Steptoe portrays the love between siblings as the pivotal example of friendship. Caring, sharing and growing up together, the traditional African narrative emphasizes brotherhood and sisterhood akin to friendship.

American Amigoes

Finally, in the multicultural melting pot of America, stories like 'Each Kindness' by Jacqueline Woodson display the diverse experiences of friendship. These tales reflect the varied cultural backgrounds in America, embedding the value of embracing unity in diversity.

From classic novels to contemporary tales, children's books paint a vivid canvas of friendships that transcend geographical boundaries and cultural differences. While the essence of a 'best friend' varies across cultures, these books convey a universal message - friendship is a powerful bond that brings forth love, trust, and understanding, crucial elements in the tapestry of human connections.