Bad Friend, 9781408749494
Paperback
Friendship breakups are common, but rarely discussed.
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Bad Friend

Why Friendship Breakups Hurt and How to Heal

$26.66

  • Paperback

    448 pages

  • Release Date

    17 August 2026

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Summary

We live in a society that heroizes romantic love over platonic love, yet despite the attempts to revolutionize Valentines to Galentines and even Malentines, we still prioritize romantic relationships over friendships. Just look at the language we have for each stage; from seeing each other to dating, committing to one another to getting engaged and married. We even have multiple options for the same meaning, whether it’s fuck buddies, non-exclusive, no strings attached, friends with benefits …

Book Details

ISBN-13:9781408749494
ISBN-10:1408749491
Author:Michelle Elman
Publisher:John Murray Press
Imprint:Renegade Books
Format:Paperback
Number of Pages:448
Release Date:17 August 2026
Weight:0g
Dimensions:198mm x 129mm
What They're Saying

Critics Review

Friendship breakups are so painful and so many people need this book. Our broken platonic hearts are in such safe hands with Michelle’s expert advice and insight – Holly Bourne

Insightful, wise, compassionate. This book is going to help so many people

– Louise O’NeillMichelle’s writing is my emergency contact - I always come away with pluck in my step and a plan of action – Lenna NormsThis is a truly game-changing book highlighting the importance and complexities of female friendships. It’s a brilliantly researched book, and a book we should ALL read – Louise PentlandThis book is your new best friend. The guide to friendship breakups we all so desperately need. An incredible, no-bullshit, kind and warm guide to navigating the difficulty of friendships ending. We’ve needed this book for years - I’m so happy it finally exists! – Sofie HagenFemale friendships can be core of a healthy, happy, fulfilled life. Their complexities are so often overlooked, but not anymore. Michelle Elman has perfectly summarised their complicated importance. Bravo – Anna WhitehouseIt’s time for a new narrative around platonic love, and to heal from the wounds those heartbreaks have left. I can think of no better person than Michelle - who loves deeply, heals phenomenally and is truly a great friend - to show us the way – Megan Jayne CrabbeMichelle is the queen of boundaries – Katie PiperThe world would be a much better place if every woman read Bad Friend and learned to communicate as clearly and directly as Michelle teaches us to. A game-changer which made me feel a million times better about friendships that have gone wrong in the past, while arming me with the tools I need for the future – Ellie MiddletonThis book is a must-read for anyone who’s ever questioned a friendship, felt the sting of outgrowing someone, or wondered how to be a better friend themselves – Shivani PauThis is a long overdue conversation about friendship: the joys, the break ups, the frustrations, and the tricky points of conflict that we all navigate over the course of time – Abigail MannMichelle’s ability to share her wisdom with wit, honesty, and heart - whilst tackling subjects often untouched - is a testament to her generosity and fearless spirit. With a wicked sense of humour, confidence and an uncanny ability to connect with people at every level, Michelle is truly one of a kind – Michelle Zelli

About The Author

Michelle Elman

Michelle Elman: The Queen of Boundaries

Michelle Elman, widely known as the “Queen of Boundaries,” is a highly accredited life coach, author, broadcaster, and public speaker. She is celebrated for her direct and honest approach, which has led to her regular appearances on the ITV daytime show This Morning as their resident life coach.

Elman is the author of three best-selling books:

  • Am I Ugly? (2018)
  • The Joy Of Being Selfish (2021)
  • The Selfish Romantic (2023)

Her debut children’s book, How To Say No (2023), has been instrumental in initiating important conversations about boundaries among teenagers.

Michelle’s influence extends globally, with her books translated and sold in 16 countries. She has cultivated a substantial online presence, boasting over 250,000 followers on Instagram and 200,000 on TikTok.

A prominent figure in the media and a leading spokesperson in her field, Michelle’s work has been recognized by publications such as Glamour, Stylist, and Grazia. Cosmopolitan has highlighted The Joy of Being Selfish as one of the essential reads for mental health.

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