The Three Funny Friends — Charlotte Zolotow

A classic story first published in 1961, The Three Funny Friends tells the tale of a little girl who moves to a new town and, in her loneliness, befriends a trio of pals who conspire to do all sorts of things--both good and naughty--with her. The mischief continues, to the frustration of the little girl's weary mother, until the girl meets a flesh-and-blood child who lives next door. As they play and pursue adventures, those three funny friends are suddenly nowhere to be seen. It's a sweet, affecting story, for ages 48, about finding one's place in a new home, and the importance of companionship.