Are you searching for the best books on death for children to help them navigate the difficult topic of loss and grief? Exploring the concept of death with children can be challenging, but books can offer comfort and understanding during these tough times. Whether it’s the loss of a pet or a loved one, these 20 books about death for children are thoughtfully written and beautifully illustrated to help children process their emotions and find hope in the face of loss. From gentle and heartfelt stories to helpful guides, these death for children books are essential for any child’s bookshelf.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Death For Children Books
- 2 The Memory Box
- 3 The Goodbye Book
- 4 The Invisible String
- 5 The Tenth Good Thing About Barney
- 6 The Fall of Freddie the Leaf
- 7 The Saddest Time
- 8 The Next Place
- 9 The Heart and the Bottle
- 10 The Dead Bird
- 11 The Scar
- 12 The Funeral
- 13 The Rabbit Listened
- 14 The Boy and the Whale
- 15 The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye
- 16 The Flat Rabbit
- 17 The Goodbye Cancer Garden
- 18 The Rough Patch
- 19 The Remember Balloons
- 20 Everlost
- 21 The Memory Box: A Book About Grief
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Death For Children Books
- 23
20 Best Death For Children Books
The Memory Box
by Mary Bahr
The Memory Box by Mary Bahr is a touching and heartwarming book about dealing with loss and grief. It follows the story of a young boy named Joey who is struggling to come to terms with the death of his grandmother. With the help of his family, Joey creates a memory box filled with special mementos and memories of his grandmother, allowing him to process his emotions and find comfort in the midst of his grief.
This beautifully illustrated book on death for children offers a sensitive and gentle approach to the difficult topic of loss, making it a valuable resource for parents and caregivers looking for ways to help children cope with the death of a loved one. The Memory Box provides a safe space for children to explore their feelings and memories, offering reassurance and understanding during a challenging time. Through its heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters, this book about death for children provides a comforting and hopeful message about the healing power of remembering and honoring those we have lost.
The Goodbye Book
by Todd Parr
The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr is a gentle and comforting book about death for children. Through colorful and heartwarming illustrations, Parr explores the complex emotions that come with saying goodbye to someone or something we love. The book acknowledges the sadness and confusion that can accompany death for children, while also offering reassurance and hope for the future. It encourages children to express their feelings and reminds them that it’s okay to grieve in their own way.
Todd Parr’s signature blend of simple and comforting language makes this book on death for children accessible and relatable, providing a valuable resource for parents and caregivers to help children navigate the difficult concept of loss. The Goodbye Book is a poignant and tender exploration of the universal experience of saying goodbye, making it a must-have for any child’s bookshelf.
The Invisible String
by Patrice Karst
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst is a heartwarming and reassuring book about the unbreakable bond between loved ones, even when they are physically apart. This poignant story is perfect for children who are dealing with the concept of loss or separation. The book beautifully conveys the message that no matter where we are, we are always connected to the people we love through an invisible string.
The Invisible String is a comforting and gentle way to introduce the concept of ‘loss’ to children, reassuring them that the love of their family and friends will always be with them, even when they can’t be together. This book provides a sense of comfort and security, making it a valuable resource for children dealing with separation, loss, or feelings of loneliness. The Invisible String is a truly heartwarming and uplifting book that helps children understand the concept of ‘death’ in a gentle and loving way.
The Tenth Good Thing About Barney
by Judith Viorst
The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst is a heartwarming book about loss and coping with the death of a beloved pet. This beautifully illustrated book on death for children follows a young boy as he mourns the passing of his cat, Barney. In an attempt to come to terms with his grief, the boy sets out to find ten good things about Barney to share at the cat’s funeral. As he reflects on Barney’s quirks and unique personality traits, the boy begins to find comfort in the memories they shared together.
This book about death for children gently addresses the difficult topic of loss and offers a hopeful message about finding peace in the midst of sadness. The story encourages children to express their emotions and find positive ways to remember and honor their loved ones. The Tenth Good Thing About Barney is a poignant and touching death for children book that provides a sensitive and compassionate exploration of grief for young readers.
The Fall of Freddie the Leaf
by Leo Buscaglia
The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia is a heartwarming and thoughtful book about the cycle of life and the concept of death for children. The story follows Freddie, a young leaf who experiences the changing seasons alongside his friends on a tree. As the seasons pass, Freddie learns about the natural cycle of life and death, and comes to terms with his own mortality. Through Freddie’s journey, children are gently introduced to the idea of death and the beauty of life’s continuous cycle.
Buscaglia’s tender and poignant storytelling approach makes The Fall of Freddie the Leaf a comforting and uplifting read for children dealing with loss or seeking understanding about death. The book’s gentle illustrations and simple yet profound message provide a comforting way for children to explore and comprehend the concept of death. The Fall of Freddie the Leaf is a timeless classic that offers solace and understanding to children and adults alike, making it a valuable resource for families, educators, and caregivers.
The Saddest Time
by Norma Simon
The Saddest Time by Norma Simon is a compassionate and sensitive book about the topic of loss and grief, specifically written for young readers. This poignant book on death for children gently addresses the difficult emotions that come with the death of a loved one. Through heartfelt language and tender illustrations, the author guides children through the process of understanding and coping with the feelings of sadness and loss.
With its comforting and reassuring tone, this book about death for children provides a supportive resource for families and caregivers to help children navigate the complex emotions that arise when dealing with the death of a family member, friend, or pet. The Saddest Time is a valuable tool for opening up conversations about death for children and helping them find ways to remember and honor their loved ones while also finding comfort and healing in the midst of sorrow.
The Next Place
by Warren Hanson
The Next Place by Warren Hanson is a beautifully illustrated and comforting book about death for children. It gently addresses the topic of loss and the idea of transitioning to the next phase of life. The book uses poetic language and evocative imagery to convey a sense of peace, hope, and reassurance about what comes after this life. It provides a comforting perspective on the death for children and offers a sense of understanding and acceptance.
The book’s soothing and uplifting message makes it a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and educators who are looking for a sensitive way to help children understand and cope with the concept of loss. The Next Place is a heartwarming and tender exploration of the idea that there is something beautiful and comforting awaiting us after we leave this world. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a gentle and thoughtful approach to discussing the topic of death for children.
The Heart and the Bottle
by Oliver Jeffers
The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers is a poignant and beautifully illustrated book about loss and grief for children. The story follows a young girl who experiences the profound sadness of losing someone she loves. In her sorrow, she puts her heart in a bottle to protect it from further pain, and as a result, she closes herself off from the world around her. The book explores the themes of love, loss, and coming to terms with grief in a gentle and touching way, making it a powerful tool for parents and educators to start conversations about death for children in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner. Through Jeffers’ evocative illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, The Heart and the Bottle offers a message of hope and healing, reminding readers that while loss is a part of life, there is still beauty and joy to be found. This is a must-read book on death for children that delicately addresses difficult emotions and provides comfort and understanding.
The Dead Bird
by Margaret Wise Brown
The Dead Bird by Margaret Wise Brown is a heartwarming yet poignant book about the delicate topic of death for children. The story follows a group of children who come across a dead bird in the woods and decide to give it a proper farewell. As they gather around the bird, they express their sadness, confusion, and acceptance of the bird’s passing. Through their simple yet profound actions, the children show empathy and understanding towards the cycle of life and death.
Margaret Wise Brown approaches the sensitive subject of death for children with grace and sensitivity, making it an essential book for parents and educators looking to address this topic with young readers. The book provides a gentle and comforting way for children to understand and cope with the concept of loss, making it a valuable resource for families dealing with the death of a pet or loved one. The Dead Bird is a beautifully illustrated and emotionally resonant book about death for children that encourages empathy, compassion, and understanding.
The Scar
by Charlotte Moundlic
The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic is a poignant and touching book about loss and grief, specifically written for children. This beautifully illustrated book delves into the emotional journey of a young boy who is struggling to come to terms with the death of his mother. As he navigates the complex emotions of sadness, anger, and confusion, the boy finds solace in the scar on his knee, a physical reminder of his mother’s love and presence in his life.
The Scar delicately explores the universal theme of coping with loss and the different ways in which individuals process grief. Through the boy’s introspective and heartfelt narrative, readers are able to empathize with his experience and find comfort in the healing power of memories and the enduring love of a parent. The Scar is a deeply moving and compassionate book that provides a gentle and reassuring approach to discussing the topic of death for children, making it an important and valuable resource for families and educators.
The Funeral
by Matt James
The Funeral by Matt James is a poignant and beautifully illustrated book about the delicate topic of death for children. The story follows a young boy as he attends his first funeral, where he experiences a wide range of emotions, from sadness to curiosity. Through evocative illustrations and simple yet powerful text, the book tenderly explores the complex emotions that come with loss, while also celebrating the memories of the person who has passed away. The Funeral gently addresses the concept of death for children in a way that is both honest and comforting, making it a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to support children through the grieving process. This book about death for children is a moving and tender exploration of a difficult subject, and it serves as a reminder that even in the face of loss, there is beauty in the memories we hold dear.
The Rabbit Listened
by Cori Doerrfeld
The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld is a heartwarming and sensitive book about dealing with loss and grief for children. The story follows a young child who experiences a devastating loss, and as they navigate their emotions, various animals come to offer their own advice and perspectives. However, it is the quiet and empathetic rabbit who simply listens and provides comfort that ultimately helps the child heal.
This poignant tale beautifully illustrates the importance of empathy, understanding, and the power of simply being present for someone who is grieving. The gentle and touching illustrations perfectly complement the emotional journey of the characters, making it a compelling and comforting read for children and adults alike.
For families looking for a book on death for children that addresses the difficult topic of grief with sensitivity and compassion, The Rabbit Listened is an essential addition to their library. It is a book about death for children that offers a message of hope and healing, making it a valuable resource for families navigating loss.
The Boy and the Whale
by Mordicai Gerstein
The Boy and the Whale by Mordicai Gerstein is a heartwarming and poignant story about a young boy’s encounter with a magnificent whale. When a whale becomes stranded on a beach, the boy is determined to save it, and he embarks on a brave and daring adventure to set the whale free. As the boy works tirelessly to help the whale, he learns valuable lessons about empathy, courage, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
This beautifully illustrated picture book explores themes of loss, grief, and the cycle of life, making it a touching and sensitive read for children dealing with the difficult topic of death. The Boy and the Whale provides a gentle and hopeful perspective on the natural process of life and the importance of compassion and understanding. Through the boy’s emotional journey, young readers are encouraged to contemplate the complexities of life and death in a thoughtful and reassuring way.
The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye
by Jane Yolen
The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye by Jane Yolen is a poignant book about death for children. It tells the story of a young girl named Hannah who must cope with the impending loss of her beloved pet tiger, Tiger Rose. The book beautifully captures the emotions and struggles that children face when dealing with death, offering a gentle and comforting way for young readers to process their feelings of grief and loss.
Through the touching narrative and evocative illustrations, children are taken on a journey of love, loss, and ultimately, acceptance. The book delicately handles the difficult subject matter, providing a sensitive and age-appropriate exploration of death for children. It offers a message of hope and healing, showing that even in the face of loss, love and cherished memories can endure.
The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye is a heartwarming and tender book on death for children that offers solace and comfort to young readers navigating the complex emotions surrounding loss.
The Flat Rabbit
by Bárður Oskarsson
The Flat Rabbit by Bárður Oskarsson is a heartwarming and thought-provoking book about the sensitive topic of loss and grief for children. The story follows a dog who finds a flat rabbit in the road and decides to bring it home. The dog and his friends try everything to revive the rabbit, from blowing it up with a bicycle pump to giving it a warm bath, but nothing works. As they come to terms with the rabbit’s passing, they decide to give it a proper burial. Through the simple yet poignant illustrations and gentle storytelling, the book gently introduces the concept of death to children and explores the emotions that come with it.
This book about death for children provides a beautiful and honest exploration of a difficult subject, offering a comforting and reassuring perspective on the cycle of life. The Flat Rabbit is a touching and important book that helps children understand and process the concept of loss in a tender and compassionate way.
The Goodbye Cancer Garden
by Janna Matthies
The Goodbye Cancer Garden by Janna Matthies is a touching and powerful book about death for children, written with sensitivity and compassion. The story follows a young girl named Emma who is coping with the illness and eventual passing of her beloved grandmother. As Emma grapples with the emotions and questions that come with death for children, she discovers a special way to honor her grandmother’s memory – by creating a beautiful garden filled with flowers and memories of their time together. With lyrical prose and gentle illustrations, this book about death for children offers a comforting and hopeful exploration of loss, grief, and the healing power of love. The Goodbye Cancer Garden provides a valuable resource for families, caregivers, and educators to help children navigate the difficult journey of saying goodbye to a loved one. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a thoughtful and compassionate book on death for children.
The Rough Patch
by Brian Lies
The Rough Patch by Brian Lies is a heartwarming and poignant picture book that explores themes of loss, grief, and healing. The story follows a fox named Evan, who experiences the devastating loss of his beloved pet dog, and must navigate the difficult emotions that come with it. As Evan tends to his garden, he finds solace and a sense of purpose in nurturing and caring for his plants, ultimately finding a way to mend his broken heart.
This beautifully illustrated book gently addresses the topic of death for children, offering a comforting and relatable story that can help young readers understand and process their own feelings of grief and sadness. The Rough Patch is a touching and tender exploration of the healing power of nature, friendship, and resilience, making it a valuable resource for families, educators, and anyone looking for a sensitive and thoughtful book about death for children.
The Remember Balloons
by Jessie Oliveros
The Remember Balloons by Jessie Oliveros is a poignant and heartwarming book about memory and family. It tells the story of a young boy named James who has a special connection with his grandfather. In this beautifully illustrated book, memories are represented by balloons, each one holding a precious moment in the form of a colorful balloon. However, as James’ grandfather ages, his balloons begin to slip away, and James must come to terms with the idea of loss and change. This touching story gently introduces the concept of death for children in a way that is both accessible and uplifting. It explores the bittersweet emotions that come with losing someone we love, while also celebrating the enduring power of memories. The Remember Balloons is a wonderfully written and illustrated book that offers a sensitive and thoughtful exploration of the complexities of memory and the passage of time.
Everlost
by Neal Shusterman
Everlost by Neal Shusterman is a captivating and imaginative book about death for children. In this enthralling novel, the souls of children who meet a tragic end find themselves in a place called Everlost, a ghostly world where the rules of the living no longer apply. The story follows the journeys of Nick and Allie, two young souls who become lost in Everlost after a car accident.
As they navigate this eerie afterlife, they encounter other lost souls and face a series of challenges and adventures. Shusterman masterfully weaves together elements of fantasy, adventure, and the supernatural, creating a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of what happens after death for children.
This death for children book offers a unique and powerful perspective on the afterlife, tackling complex themes such as loss, identity, and the passage of time. Everlost is a compelling and moving story that will resonate with readers of all ages, offering a fresh and imaginative take on the journey beyond death for children.
The Memory Box: A Book About Grief
by Joanna Rowland
The Memory Box: A Book About Grief by Joanna Rowland is a poignant and heartfelt book about death for children. It follows the story of a young boy who is experiencing the loss of a loved one and struggling to cope with the overwhelming emotions that come with it. Through the boy’s journey, readers are gently guided through the process of grieving and the importance of remembering and honoring the memories of the person who has passed away.
This death for children book is beautifully written and sensitively explores the universal theme of loss in a way that is accessible and relatable for young readers. The Memory Box provides a comforting and reassuring message about the healing power of memories and the importance of finding ways to keep the memory of a loved one alive.
With its touching narrative and tender illustrations, this book about death for children offers a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and educators to help children navigate the complex emotions that come with loss.
Final Thoughts on Best Death For Children Books
Exploring the topic of death with children can be a sensitive yet important endeavor. The 20 best books about Death For Children listed in this article offer a range of perspectives and approaches to help young readers navigate this difficult subject. Whether dealing with the loss of a loved one or simply seeking to understand the concept of death, these books provide valuable insight and comfort for children. Through the power of storytelling and gentle guidance, these books offer a way for children to process and cope with the inevitable. With beautiful illustrations and thoughtful narratives, these books are essential resources for parents, educators, and caregivers looking to support children through the grieving process.
Which book about Death For Children is best?
The best book on Death For Children can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Memory Box by Mary Bahr,
- The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
- The Invisible String by Patrice Karst.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Death For Children?
For those looking to learn about Death For Children, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Memory Box by Mary Bahr,
- The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
- The Invisible String by Patrice Karst,
- The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst,
- The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia,
- The Saddest Time by Norma Simon,
- The Next Place by Warren Hanson,
- The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers,
- The Dead Bird by Margaret Wise Brown,
- The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic
These books offer a range of perspectives on Death For Children, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Death For Children?
The best books about Death For Children are:
- The Memory Box by Mary Bahr,
- The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
- The Funeral by Matt James,
- The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld,
- The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers,
- The Saddest Time by Norma Simon.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Death For Children are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Death For Children books of all time?
Choosing the best Death For Children books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- The Memory Box by Mary Bahr,
- The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
- The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia,
- The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers,
- and The Funeral by Matt James.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Death For Children and continues to be influential today.