10 Children’s Books About Death
Dealing with the topic of death can be difficult for children, but it's a reality of life that we all must eventually face. Children's books on death can be a valuable resource for helping kids understand and process the emotions that come with losing a loved one or experiencing other types of loss. Whether you're a parent, caregiver or teacher, finding the right children's book can help you open up a conversation about grief and provide a safe space for children to explore their feelings. In this article, we'll highlight 10 children's books about death that can help support children through the grieving process. These books are appropriate for a range of ages and can be used to help children understand and cope with the complex emotions that come with loss.
How do you explain death to a child?
When a loved one passes away, it is important to explain death to children in an age-appropriate manner. It is natural for children to feel a sense of grief, but they may not understand why or how this could happen. Books are often great resources for parents when explaining death and providing comfort to their children. They can help normalize grief and serve as a resource for children to understand their emotions.
Is it appropriate to read kids books about death?
Yes, it can be appropriate to read your children books about death, but it's important to make sure the books are made for kids. Depending on the age and maturity of the child, the nature of the loss, and the circumstances of their life, different books may be more appropriate than others.
Books can be a valuable tool to help children understand and process the difficult emotions that come with losing a loved one or experiencing other types of loss. When used in conjunction with open and honest communication, books about death can help children feel less alone, normalize their emotions, and provide a vocabulary for expressing their feelings. Many children's books about death are written in a way that is age-appropriate for young readers, and they often provide practical suggestions for how parents and caregivers can support children who are grieving.
However, it is important for parents to use their own judgment in selecting books that are appropriate for their child's age and emotional development. They should also be available to answer any questions or concerns that may arise from reading these books.
Where can I find children's books about grief?
There are many resources available for finding children's books about grief. Here are a few places to start:
- Local library: Visit your local library and ask a children's librarian for recommendations on grief books or books about death and loss. They may have a special section dedicated to this topic or be able to direct you to specific titles.
- Online bookstores: Many online bookstores, such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble, have a section dedicated to children's books about grief and loss. You can search by age range, topic and genre to find books that are appropriate for your child.
- Grief and bereavement organizations: Organizations such as The Dougy Center and The National Alliance for Grieving Children offer resources and recommendations for children's books about grief and loss.
- Local support groups and therapists: Local support groups and therapists who specialize in grief and bereavement may have recommendations for children's books that are appropriate for your child's specific situation.
Overall, there are many resources available for finding children's books about grief and loss. It is important to find books that are appropriate for your child's age and emotional development and to use these books as a tool to start important conversations about loss and grief.
Top 10 books for children about death, dying, grief and loss
Some of the books on this list are books for kids about the death of a parent while some are more generally about the death of a loved one, a pet, or even just the concept of loss itself. Grief doesn't require a death to be talked about or explored -- it's a normal emotion that comes up in many different circumstances.
1. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst is one of the most popular books to help explain death, connection, and love to a child who has experienced a loss. The story tells of an invisible string that connects us to our loved ones, even after they have passed away. The string represents the strong and unbreakable bond between a child and their loved one, and it helps to ease the pain and sadness of separation. The Invisible String is a powerful tool for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to help children navigate the difficult and often overwhelming emotions that come with losing a loved one.
2. The Memory Box by Joanna Rowland
This is an excellent book for teaching children about death and grieving because it provides a simple and accessible way for children to process their emotions. The story follows a young girl who has lost someone close to her, and as she deals with her grief, she creates a special memory box to hold all the things that remind her of her loved one. Through the process of creating the memory box, the girl is able to remember and celebrate the happy times she shared with her loved one, while also acknowledging the sadness and pain of their loss. The book is written in a sensitive and compassionate tone, and the illustrations beautifully capture the emotions of the story.
3. Heaven is Here by Stephania Prentice
Heaven is Here by Stephania Prentice is a poignant and powerful book for teaching children about death and grieving because it offers a unique and uplifting perspective on the topic. The book is based on the true story of a young boy named Joey who passed away, but not before telling his mother that "Heaven is here.” The story is a beautiful exploration of the idea that our loved ones are always with us, even after they have passed away. It encourages children to celebrate the happy memories they shared with their loved ones and to find comfort in the knowledge that they are never truly alone. The book is written in a gentle and comforting tone, and the illustrations are breathtakingly beautiful.
4. The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr
The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr is an excellent resource for teaching children about death and grief because it acknowledges the difficult emotions that come with loss in a simple and straightforward manner. The story follows a young fish who is dealing with the pain of saying goodbye to a friend. The book helps children understand that it is okay to feel sad, angry, or confused after losing someone, and that it is important to express those feelings in a healthy way.
5. Sad Isn’t Bad by Michaelene Mundy
Sad Isn't Bad by Michaelene Mundy is an exceptional book for teaching children about grieving, sadness, and heavy feelings because it offers a compassionate and informative approach to understanding and coping with loss. The book helps children understand that sadness is a natural response to losing someone they love. It also provides helpful strategies for coping with grief, including self-care, expressing feelings, and reaching out for support. The book includes real-life stories of children who have experienced loss, as well as exercises and activities that encourage children to explore their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. The illustrations are colorful and engaging, making the book accessible to children of all ages.
6. When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death by Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown
When Dinosaurs Die is a frequently recommended book for teaching children about death and grieving. It is a comprehensive and practical guide that covers a wide range of topics related to death. The book uses clear and straightforward language that is accessible to children of all ages, and it covers various aspects of death, such as different cultural and religious beliefs, what happens to the body after death, and how to cope with grief. The illustrations are engaging and help to reinforce the message of the book.
7. Chester Raccoon And The Acorn Full Of Memories by Barbara L. Gibson
This is an excellent book for teaching children about death and grieving because it provides a relatable and heartfelt way for children to process their emotions. The story follows Chester Raccoon, who is dealing with the loss of a loved one. With the help of his mother, Chester creates a special acorn to hold all the memories of his loved one, and through this process, he learns to celebrate the happy times they shared together while also acknowledging the sadness of their loss. The book is written in a gentle tone, and the illustrations beautifully capture the emotions of the story.
8. Samantha Jane's Missing Smile by Donna B. Pincus and Julie B. Kaplow
This is a must-read for parents who want to teach their children about death, dying, and grief in a relatable and compassionate way. The book tells the story of Samantha Jane, who loses her grandfather and struggles with the sadness and confusion that comes with his death. Through the help of her mother and friends, Samantha Jane learns how to process her grief and find comfort in the happy memories she shared with her grandfather. Samantha Jane's Missing Smile encourages children to express their emotions and seek support from loved ones, while also providing a message of hope and healing. It is an invaluable resource for parents who want to help their children understand and navigate the complex emotions that come with losing a loved one, and it provides a foundation for healthy grieving and long-term healing.
9. Ida, Always by Caron Levis
Ida, Always is an incredibly powerful and moving book that parents can use to teach their children about death, dying, and grief. The book tells the story of two best friends, a polar bear named Gus and a fox named Ida, who live in a zoo. When Ida becomes sick and ultimately passes away, Gus and the zookeeper learn to process their grief and celebrate the life and friendship that they shared with Ida. The book provides a touching and relatable story that children can easily connect with.
10. One Wave At A Time by Holly Thompson
One Wave At A Time is a powerful and engaging book that parents should use to teach their children about death, dying, and processing grief. The book tells the story of a young girl named Toko, who lives in Japan and experiences the loss of her father. Through the help of her family and friends, Toko learns to navigate the complex emotions that come with losing a loved one and finds comfort in the traditions and culture of her community. The illustrations beautifully capture the emotions of the story. One Wave At A Time not only teaches children about death and dying, but it also provides an introduction to the culture and traditions of Japan, making it a valuable educational resource for families and educators.
Reading books about death can help children learn to cope with grief in healthy, productive ways. It is important to find stories that provide comfort and guidance while still being age-appropriate and honest. The books on this list are a great place to start when it comes to discussing death with children. With patience and understanding, these books can help children explore their feelings and provide them with a better understanding of death.
