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Key Takeaways:
- Many children experience the loss of a parent or a loved one, and this can have an impact on their school and home life.
- Grief books help children understand and learn about the concept of death in an age-appropriate way.
- Books about grief help children understand that their feelings of sadness, anger, and confusion are normal and valid.
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Grief books for children play an important role in helping young readers understand their feelings surrounding loss. These stories provide comfort and understanding and encourage important conversations about grief and healing.
In 2015, United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) reported that almost 140 million of children had lost one or both parents before the time they turned 18 [*].
Moreover, a study led by Pitt Department of Psychiatry found that children who lost a parent were more than twice as likely to face difficulties at school and at home. This impact persisted for seven years after the loss, even when other factors, like pre-existing mental health issues, were considered [*].
Related Handout: Grief and Loss Handouts Bundle
Books About Explaining Death to Children
These books about death for kids can be useful tools for guiding children through the difficult topic of death:
1. "The Invisible String" by Patrice Karst
"The Invisible String" is a touching picture book that explains the enduring connection between loved ones through the metaphor of an invisible string made of love. The story reassures children that no matter the distance or separation, love keeps them connected, and provides comfort during moments of grief, loss, or loneliness.
Price: $6.99 on Amazon, $9.99 on Barnes and Noble
2. "I Miss You: A First Look at Death" by Pat Thomas
This book explains to children that death is a natural part of life and that it’s normal to feel sadness and grief after experiencing a loss. The book uses simple language and vibrant illustrations to help young readers process their emotions and provide parents and educators a tool to help children understand death and grief.
Price: $6.07 on Amazon, $8.99 on Barnes and Noble
3. "The Fall of Freddie the Leaf" by Leo Buscaglia
Leo Buscaglia uses the story of a leaf named Freddie to explore the themes of life, death, and the passage of time. Through Freddie's journey with his fellow leaves, children can learn about the inevitability of change, the cycle of life, and how to cope with grief and loss.
Price: $19.97 on Amazon, $13.49 on Barnes and Noble
4. "Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children" by Bryan Mellonie and Robert Ingpen
"Lifetimes" is a heartfelt and beautifully illustrated book that helps children understand the natural cycle of life and death. It explains that all living things, from plants to animals to people, have their unique lifetimes. It emphasizes that death is as much a part of life as birth.
Price: $9.39 on Amazon, $16 on Barnes and Noble
Books About Losing a Parent
These books explore the complex emotions that arise during such a difficult time and help children process their feelings and find solace in shared experiences.
5. "The Heart and the Bottle" by Oliver Jeffers
In Oliver Jeffers' story, a child learns how to find joy and magic after the loss of someone special. The book explores how, even in the absence of a beloved figure, it's possible to rediscover wonder through the encouragement of others. It teaches young readers that the magic of life can be passed on and appreciated in new ways.
Price: $15.29 on Amazon, $19.99 on Barnes and Noble
6. "My Father’s Arms Are a Boat" by Stein Erik Lunde
"My Father's Arms Are a Boat" is a story about a young boy seeking comfort from his father after the loss of his mother. The book explores themes of grief, love, and reassurance, and shows how the father’s presence helps the boy navigate his sadness and understand the cycles of life.
Price: $15.95 on Amazon, $15.95 on Barnes and Noble
7. “The Memory Box: A Book About Grief” by Joanna Rowland
The Memory Box is a touching story about a young child who creates a memory box to keep cherished mementos of a lost loved one. This book offers comfort and reassurance and validates the child’s emotions.
Price: $10.37 on Amazon, $17.99 on Barnes and Noble
8. "Someone I Love Died" by Christine Harder Tangvald
Someone I Love Died is a comforting book that helps children process grief with gentle words, biblical truth, and watercolor illustrations. The updated edition offers interactive tools, like creating a memory book, to help children go through grief and turn a tough time into a healing experience.
Price: $6.56 on Amazon, $9.99 on Barnes and Noble
9. "Tear Soup: A Recipe for Healing After Loss" by Pat Schwiebert
Tear Soup: A Recipe for Healing After Loss tells the story of Grandy, an elderly woman who begins making a special "Tear Soup" in her kitchen after experiencing a loss. As she prepares the soup, she adds various memories, both happy and sad, and shows how grief involves embracing all of the emotions tied to loss. This book can offer comfort and wisdom for both children and adults dealing with grief.
Price: $18.87 on Amazon, $21.95 on Barnes and Noble
Books About Losing a Pet
Help children navigate the difficult emotions of losing a beloved pet with these thoughtful and comforting books. These gentle stories encourage healing and understanding during a time of grief.
10. "Dog Heaven" by Cynthia Rylant
In Dog Heaven, Cynthia Rylant offers a comforting tale that imagines a joyful afterlife for dogs, filled with endless fields to run and plenty of treats. This book helps children and pet lovers find peace after the loss of a beloved dog.
Price: $10.82 on Amazon, $19.99 on Barnes and Noble
11. "Goodbye, Mousie" by Robie H. Harris
In this story, a young boy grapples with the loss of his pet, Mousie, as he experiences disbelief, anger, and deep sadness. Through sharing memories, a special burial, and saying goodbye, he begins to heal from the pain of losing his beloved friend.
Price: $9.99 on Amazon, $9.99 on Barnes and Noble
12. "The Tenth Good Thing About Barney" by Judith Viorst
In this touching story, a young boy struggles to come up with ten good things about his beloved cat, Barney, after his passing. Through a heartfelt conversation with his father, he finally discovers the tenth and starts to come to terms with his loss.
Price: $8.36 on Amazon, $8.99 on Barnes and Noble
13. "I’ll Always Love You" by Hans Wilhelm
This story follows the bond between Elfie and her owner. Her owner never fails to tell her “I’ll always love you” every night. This story shows that a part of growing up is saying goodbye to your loved ones.
Price: $7.99 on Amazon, $8.99 on Barnes and Noble
14. "When a Pet Dies" by Fred Rogers
This story guides children through the emotions of losing a pet. The book helps young readers understand that, over time, the pain will lessen, and they’ll be able to cherish the happy memories they shared with their pets.
Price: $7.43 on Amazon, $7.99 on Barnes and Noble
Books About Losing a Grandparent
Losing a grandparent can be heartbreaking for children, especially when they are close. These books can help them process the experience.
15. "Nana Upstairs & Nana Downstairs" by Tomie dePaola
This story follows young Tommy and his cherished weekly visits with his grandmothers, Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs. Through moments of shared love and care, Tommy learns to cope with the loss of both grandmothers and finds comfort in their memories.
Price: $8.89 on Amazon
16. "Grandpa's Soup" by Eiko Kadono
When Grandma passes away, Grandpa is consumed by sadness and isolates himself. One day, he decides to make the soup his wife used to cook, and as he shares it with unexpected visitors, he discovers that connecting with others helps ease his loneliness.
Price: $7.87 on Amazon
17. "The Remember Balloons" by Jessie Oliveros
In this story, James's Grandpa holds onto balloons that represent his cherished memories, but as they begin to drift away, James is heartbroken. When Grandpa loses his final memory, it’s up to James to hold onto and share those memories.
Price: $13.69 on Amazon, $10.99 on Barnes and Noble
18. "Grandad’s Island" by Benji Davies
In this story, Syd visits his Grandad’s house only to find him in the attic, where they embark on a journey to a vibrant island where Grandad decides to stay. After their final embrace, Syd returns home and discovers that while Grandad is no longer physically present, the love and memories they share remain alive in his heart.
Price: $11.50 on Amazon, $16.99 on Barnes and Noble
19. "I Miss You: A First Look at Death" by Pat Thomas
This book is a part of the A First Look At series. It helps children understand the feelings associated with losing a loved one and presents death as a natural part of life.
Price: $12.95 on Amazon
Books About Losing a Friend
Friendships formed during childhood can be significant, as friends provide companionship, play, and emotional support. Losing a friend during childhood can be painful, and these books might help:
20. "The Goodbye Book" by Todd Parr
Through the story of a pet fish who loses its companion, the book reassures readers that it's okay to feel confused and sad, and reminds them that they are always surrounded by love and support.
Price: $11.54 on Amazon, $18.99 on Barnes and Noble
21. "When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death" by Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown
This book uses the beloved dinosaurs from the Dino Tale series, to answer common questions kids have about loss. It offers reassurance and support during difficult times, whether the loss is of a family member, friend, or pet.
Price: $6.99 on Amazon, $9.99 on Barnes and Noble
22. "Badger's Parting Gifts" by Susan Varley
The story follows Badger, who senses that his time is near and prepares his friends for his passing. After his death, his friends are saddened, but they find comfort in the memories and life lessons Badger shared with them, and they realize that he lives on through these cherished moments.
Price: $10.74 on Amazon, $9.99 on Barnes and Noble
23. "Saying Goodbye to Lulu" by Corinne Demas
This heartfelt story follows a young girl as she copes with the loss of her beloved dog, Lulu, after spending many cherished years together. Although saddened by Lulu's passing, the girl finds solace in the cherished memories that help her keep her friend close in her heart.
Price: $8.99 on Amazon, $8.99 on Barnes and Noble
24. "Gentle Willow: A Story for Children About Dying" by Joyce C. Mills
Amanda the squirrel is saddened by the impending loss of her friend, Gentle Willow. With guidance from the tree wizards, both she and Gentle Willow learn to embrace the changes that come with death.
Price: $4.31 on Amazon
Books About Losing a Sibling
Whether a child is close to their sibling or not, losing them can be heartbreaking. These books can help children cope with the loss:
25. “You’ll Always Be” by Callie Fryt T
This book captures the heartfelt reflections of a mother on the life of her four-year-old son, Kaiden, who passed away unexpectedly. It is aimed at helping her two-year-old daughter and others navigate grief.
Price: $20 on Amazon
26. “Lost and Found: Remembering a Sister” by Ellen Yeomans
The story begins with a child's confusion and sorrow after her sister Paige's death. Through her journey of grief and understanding, she grapples with the idea of whether someone who is "lost" can also be "found,".
Price: $8.95 on Amazon
27. “Remembering Ethan” by Lesléa Newman
Sarah deeply misses her beloved older brother, Ethan. Despite her parents' reluctance to mention him after his passing, Sarah takes the initiative to keep Ethan's memory alive, and encourages her family to remember him.
Price: $16.99 on Amazon, $16.99 on Barnes and Noble
28. “A Birthday Present for Daniel: A Child's Story of Loss” by Juliet Rothman
Ellen reflects on how the death of her brother has affected her family dynamics and her perception of herself and others. This book encourages open discussions between children and adults, and offers suggestions for commemorating the birthday of a deceased sibling.
Price: $9.99 on Amazon
29. “Where’s Jess?” by Marvin Johnson
This book offers a gentle approach for young children coping with the death of a sibling. It reassures kids that they can openly discuss their feelings about their sibling and provides suggestions for honoring and remembering them.
Price: $7.95 on Amazon
Books About Grief in Different Cultures
These children's books about grief offers different perspectives and give children a chance to learn about death from different worldviews:
30. "Tsunami!" by Kimiko Kajikawa
This story follows Ojiisan, an elderly man who senses an impending tsunami coming for his village. While not explicitly about grief, the book touches on the emotional weight of sacrifice, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of disaster.
Price: $16.38 on Amazon
31. "Always Remember" by Cece Meng
This book tells the story of how sea creatures lovingly remember Old Turtle after he passes. It helps children understand that even after someone is gone, their memory and impact live on.
Price: $13.13 on Amazon
32. "The Day of the Dead / El Día de los Muertos" by Bob Barner
This book is about two children who honor their ancestors during the Day of the Dead celebration. The story highlights the traditions of the holiday, including offerings of marigolds, sugar skulls, and special foods to guide the spirits of loved ones.
Price: $9.48 on Amazon, $8.99 on Barnes and Noble
33. "Ida, Always" by Caron Levis
Ida, Always tells the heartfelt story of two polar bear friends, Gus and Ida, living in a city park. When Ida becomes very sick, Gus learns to cope with the painful reality of her impending loss and discovers that their bond and memories will live on even after she's gone.
Price: $14.39 on Amazon, $19.99 on Barnes and Noble
34. "The Spirit of Tío Fernando: A Day of the Dead Story" by Janice Levy
This story follows Nando and his mother as they celebrate the Day of the Dead by honoring Tío Fernando, Nando's late uncle. As they prepare for the festivities and visit the cemetery, Nando learns about connecting with his uncle's spirit through this special tradition.
Price: $8.99 on Amazon
Books About Healing and Moving Forward
Healing after the death of a loved one can be difficult for children. These books may help them:
35. "The Kissing Hand" by Audrey Penn
Through the touching story of Chester Raccoon, who learns to embrace new experiences with the reassurance of his mother's love, the book provides emotional support and practical strategies for children facing transitions.
Price: $19.99 on Amazon
36. "The Red Tree" by Shaun Tan
This reassuring picture book, The Red Tree, reminds children that negative thoughts and feelings are temporary. It shows that even in dark times, there is always the possibility of renewal and light.
Price: $4.99 on Amazon
37. "The Way I Feel" by Janan Cain
The Way I Feel helps children recognize and express their complex emotions in a positive way. This book provides kids with the vocabulary they need to articulate their feelings.
Price: $9.29 on Amazon, $9.99 on Barnes and Noble
38. "After the Fall: How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again" by Dan Santat
Following Humpty Dumpty’s journey after his fall, the story highlights his struggle with a newfound fear of heights and his determination to reclaim his passion for birdwatching. It ultimately conveys the message that true strength comes from getting back up after setbacks.
Price: $9.92 on Amazon, $19.99 on Barnes and Noble
39. “The Rabbit Listened” by Cori Doerrfeld
The Rabbit Listened is a heartfelt picture book that emphasizes the importance of simply listening in times of sadness. When Taylor feels overwhelmed by emotions, various animals offer different suggestions, but it is the rabbit's quiet presence and willingness to listen that ultimately brings comfort and healing.
Price: $11.63 on Amazon, $18.99 on Barnes and Noble
More Grieving Resources for Children
In addition to these books for grieving children, grief worksheets can also be highly beneficial.
These tools can provide prompts that help children articulate their feelings and thoughts about loss, so it is easier for them to express emotions that they may find difficult to verbalize.
References:
- Alvis L, Zhang N, Sandler IN, Kaplow JB. Developmental Manifestations of Grief in Children and Adolescents: Caregivers as Key Grief Facilitators. J Child Adolesc Trauma. 2022 Jan 28;16(2):447-457. doi: 10.1007/s40653-021-00435-0. PMID: 35106114; PMCID: PMC8794619.
- University of Pittsburgh Department of Psychiatry. (2018b, November 16). University of Pittsburgh Department of Psychiatry. https://www.psychiatry.pitt.edu/news/longest-and-most-detailed-study-pediatric-grief-following-parental-loss-date-department
