The Girls: questions to ask and activities to try
Four girls meet under an apple tree and stay friends as they grow up. The Girls is a warm, simple story about friendship through ups and downs.
What age is it for? The Girls is best for ages 4–8. Good for: Friendship that lasts through growing up.
The Girls (Lauren Ace and Jenny Løvlie)
- Age
- 4-8
- Best for
- Friendship that lasts through growing up
Read it and point out how each girl is different. Talk about what makes a good friend through good times and bad.
What it helps with
- Lifelong friendship
- Being different and still friends
- Supporting each other
- Growing up
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Where did the girls meet?”
- “How were they different?”
- “What did they share?”
- “How did they help each other?”
- “What makes a good friend?”
- “Who is a friend you’ll keep forever?”
5-minute activities to try together
Friend tree
Draw a tree and add a leaf for each friend.
Friendship letter
Write a short letter to a friend saying why they're special.
Free printables: The Girls worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Alex and Alex (Ziggy Hanaor and Ben Javens)
- Best for
- Friends who like different things, and accepting each other
- Age
- 3-6
Hello, Friend! (Rebecca Cobb)
- Best for
- Making friends, and noticing what the other person wants
- Age
- 3-6
A Splendid Friend, Indeed (Suzanne Bloom)
- Best for
- Making friends with someone very different from you
- Age
- 2-5
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.