Step into the vibrant world of Franklin School Friends, where third-graders at Franklin School navigate friendships, passions, and everyday challenges with heart and humor! Written by Claudia Mills, this charming children’s book series captures the joys and struggles of young readers through relatable characters like Kelsey, Annika, Izzy, and Simon. With its blend of schoolyard adventures and life lessons, Franklin School Friends invites readers to celebrate the magic of growing up.
Perfect for kids aged 7–10, the series dives into the lives of Mrs. Molina’s third-grade class, where each student shines in their unique way. Whether it’s Kelsey’s love for reading or Annika’s math wizardry, Mills’ storytelling makes every page a delight. Ready to explore this cozy world? Let’s dive in!
How Franklin School Friends Began
Claudia Mills, a former philosophy professor turned prolific children’s author, crafted Franklin School Friends from her love of everyday stories. Drawing on memories of her childhood in New Jersey and tales from her two sons’ school days in Colorado, Mills created a series that feels authentic and warm. Launched in 2013 with Kelsey Green, Reading Queen, the series reflects Mills’ knack for weaving ethical dilemmas into relatable narratives, making it a hit with young readers and parents alike.
Mills’ background in philosophy shines through, as she subtly infuses each story with themes of fairness, kindness, and personal growth. Partnered with illustrator Rob Shepperson, whose whimsical black-and-white drawings add charm, Mills built a world that’s both grounded and enchanting, set in the bustling halls of Franklin School.
The Heart of Franklin School Friends
The Franklin School Friends series spans five books, each spotlighting a different student’s passion. In Kelsey Green, Reading Queen, Kelsey aims to win a school-wide reading contest but learns that helping a struggling classmate, Cody, matters more than beating her rival, Simon. Annika Riz, Math Whiz follows Annika as she tackles a Sudoku contest and saves her class’s carnival booth with her math skills, proving numbers can be fun. Izzy Barr, Running Star explores Izzy’s athletic prowess and her complex feelings about her father’s divided attention, while Simon Ellis, Spelling Bee Champ delves into Simon’s quest for spelling glory amid teamwork challenges. Cody Harmon, King of Pets, the final book, celebrates Cody’s love for animals as he navigates school dynamics.
These stories, set in the lively Franklin School, weave themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience. Mills’ conversational style and focus on diverse passions—reading, math, sports, spelling, and pets—make each book a mirror for young readers to see themselves. The series’ ethical undertones, like Kelsey’s redemption or Annika’s persistence, add depth without feeling heavy, creating a balance that’s both fun and thought-provoking.
Rob Shepperson’s illustrations enhance the storytelling, capturing the energy of third-grade life. From classroom antics to playground rivalries, the series paints a vivid picture of school as a place of growth and connection, resonating with fans of Clementine and Judy Moody.
Why Franklin School Friends Resonates
Franklin School Friends stands out for its authentic portrayal of childhood’s ups and downs. By focusing on everyday challenges—rivalries, family dynamics, and pursuing passions—Mills creates stories that feel universal yet personal. The series has earned praise for its relatable characters and ethical depth, with reviewers like Kirkus Reviews noting its “promise” and School Library Journal comparing it to beloved children’s classics. Its recognition as a “Notable Series” by The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books in 2016 underscores its impact.
Parents and educators love the series for its subtle life lessons, while kids are drawn to its humor and heart. Though it concluded in 2016, Franklin School Friends remains a timeless gem, encouraging young readers to embrace their unique strengths and support their friends.
- Publication Years: 2013–2016
- Number of Books: 5
- Awards: Named a Notable Series by The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (2016)
- Target Age: 7–10
Grab Kelsey Green, Reading Queen and dive into the heartwarming world of Franklin School Friends today! Join Kelsey, Annika, Izzy, and friends for adventures that celebrate the joys of childhood and the power of friendship.