10 Best Children's Books About Death - 2024 Reading List
Losing a loved one is difficult for anyone, But it's especially hard for children who are often struggling to understand their emotions and process their grief.
While it's never easy to discuss death with children, these books can provide a gentle and comforting way to help them cope with loss and grief.
In this blog post, we'll explore the top 10 children's books about death that offer comfort, understanding, and hope for young readers.
1. The Invisible String - Patrice Karst
"The Invisible String" is a heartwarming book that reminds children that they are never truly alone, even when their loved ones are no longer with them. The book introduces the concept of an invisible string that connects us to the people we love, even when they are no longer physically present.
2. "The Rabbit Listened" by Cori Doerrfeld
"The Rabbit Listened" by Cori Doerrfeld is a compassionate children's book that teaches empathy and active listening in the face of grief. It tells the story of a boy who must cope with the loss of his beloved blocks tower, and how the rabbit's gentle presence and listening helps him process his emotions. The book is a valuable lesson on supporting others during times of loss.
3. "The Memory Box" by Joanna Rowland
"The Memory Box" is a beautifully illustrated book that tells the story of a little girl who creates a memory box to help her cope with the loss of her grandmother. Through this book, children can learn about the importance of remembering and cherishing the memories of their loved ones who have passed away.
4. "God Gave Us Heaven" by Lisa Tawn Bergren
"God Gave Us Heaven" is a heartwarming book that introduces children to the concept of heaven and provides comfort for those who have lost loved ones. Through the eyes of a curious polar bear cub, the book explores questions about what happens after we die and whether we will see our loved ones again.
5. "Tear Soup" by Pat Schwiebert and Chuck DeKlyen
Tear Soup is a comforting book that explores the emotions and experiences of grief. It tells the story of a woman who copes with the loss of her loved one by making "tear soup" and processing her grief. With beautiful illustrations and a compassionate tone, "Tear Soup" offers a valuable resource for children and adults dealing with loss. The book encourages readers to honor their emotions and find comfort in the memories of their loved ones, providing hope and healing for the future.
The Giving Bear
The Giving Bear arrives with an endless supply of hugs for a child who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Each bear is 12" tall and is lightly stuffed to offer a warm and huggable body.
6. "The Fall of Freddie the Leaf" by Leo Buscaglia
"The Fall of Freddie the Leaf" is a beautiful book that explores the cycle of life and death through the eyes of a leaf named Freddie. The book provides a gentle and comforting way for children to understand the concept of death and the idea that everything and everyone has a purpose and a season.
7. The Cardinal's Gift: A True Story of Finding Hope in Grief by Carole Heaney
"The Cardinal's Gift: A True Story of Finding Hope in Grief" is a touching book that offers a powerful message of resilience and hope. Based on a true story, the book tells the tale of a family that finds comfort in a special gift from a cardinal after the loss of their loved one. The book encourages readers to find comfort in the small moments of beauty and joy that can help us move forward in the face of loss by offering a message of hope.
8. Dog Heaven" by Cynthia Rylant
Dog Heavenis a heartwarming book that provides comfort and hope for children who have lost their furry friends. The book imagines a joyful and playful heaven where dogs can run and play, and where their every need is met. Through its beautiful illustrations and gentle narrative, "Dog Heaven" offers a valuable resource for children who are struggling to come to terms with the loss of a beloved pet.
9. "The Invisible Leash" by Patrice Karst
The Invisible Leash is a heartwarming book that explores the special bond between pets and their owners. The book tells the story of a little boy who discovers that even though his beloved dog has passed away, the invisible leash that connects them will never be broken. Through its gentle message of love and companionship, "The Invisible Leash" provides comfort and hope for children who are grieving the loss of a pet.
