Books on Death For Preschoolers: Update of the Best Titles

Are you looking for a way to help preschoolers understand and cope with the concept of death? Exploring this sensitive topic through books can be a gentle and comforting approach. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the 20 best books on death for preschoolers. These books offer age-appropriate explanations and heartwarming stories to help young children navigate the difficult emotions that come with loss. Whether it’s the loss of a pet, a family member, or simply a curiosity about the topic, these death for preschoolers books provide valuable tools for parents, educators, and caregivers to support children through this challenging time.

20 Best Death For Preschoolers Books

The Goodbye Book

by Todd Parr

The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr is a gentle and heartfelt exploration of the difficult topic of loss and saying goodbye. This beautifully illustrated book is a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers seeking to help preschoolers navigate the emotions surrounding death. With simple and reassuring language, Parr addresses the range of feelings that come with saying goodbye, from sadness and confusion to acceptance and hope. The book’s colorful and whimsical illustrations provide a comforting and accessible way for young children to understand and process their emotions. Through its compassionate and relatable approach, The Goodbye Book offers a supportive and empowering message for children as they cope with the loss of a loved one or beloved pet. Todd Parr’s poignant and uplifting narrative makes this book an essential addition to any library looking for a thoughtful and compassionate resource to help young children understand and navigate the concept of loss.

The Invisible String

by Patrice Karst

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst is a heartwarming and comforting book for preschoolers that addresses the topic of separation and loss in a gentle and reassuring way. The story follows the concept of an invisible string that connects us to the people we love, no matter where they are. When the child in the story feels anxious or misses someone, they are reminded that they are always connected by this special string.

This beautifully illustrated book provides a comforting message for children who may be struggling with the concept of loss or separation. It’s a wonderful tool for parents and caregivers to start a conversation about the difficult topic of death for preschoolers, and to help children understand that even when someone is not physically present, they are still connected by love.

The Invisible String is a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and counselors looking for a gentle and age-appropriate way to address the topic of death for preschoolers.

The Memory Box: A Book About Grief

by Joanna Rowland

The Memory Box: A Book About Grief by Joanna Rowland is a tender and heartfelt book about death for preschoolers. It tells the story of a young girl who is coping with the loss of her beloved grandmother. The girl finds solace in creating a memory box filled with special mementos that remind her of the happy times she shared with her grandmother. Through the process of creating the memory box, the girl learns to navigate her feelings of sadness and find comfort in the memories she holds dear.

This death for preschoolers book is a gentle and sensitive way to help young children understand and process the concept of loss. The beautiful illustrations and poignant storytelling provide a safe space for children to explore their emotions and learn how to cherish the memories of those they have lost. The Memory Box is a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and educators looking for a compassionate and age-appropriate way to support children through the grieving process.

The Rabbit Listened

by Cori Doerrfeld

The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld is a heartwarming and poignant book on death for preschoolers that gently explores the complex emotions of grief and loss. When Taylor’s block tower is knocked down, various animals try to offer solutions to fix the problem, but it’s the rabbit who simply listens to Taylor’s feelings of sadness and frustration. Through beautiful illustrations and a touching narrative, this book about death for preschoolers teaches young readers the importance of empathy, patience, and understanding in the face of loss.

With a sensitive approach to a difficult subject, The Rabbit Listened is a comforting and reassuring death for preschoolers book that encourages children to express their emotions and find solace in the presence of those who care for them. It’s a must-read for families and educators looking to support young children dealing with grief and coping with difficult emotions.

The Scar

by Charlotte Moundlic

The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic is a poignant and touching book about death for preschoolers. The story follows a young boy who is dealing with the loss of his mother. Through simple yet powerful language and beautiful illustrations, the book explores the boy’s emotions as he tries to come to terms with the loss of his mother and the scar she left behind.

The Scar is a gentle and sensitive portrayal of grief and healing, making it a valuable resource for parents and educators looking for a way to help young children understand and cope with death. The book offers a message of hope and resilience, showing that even in the face of great loss, it is possible to find comfort and strength.

With its heartfelt storytelling and evocative artwork, The Scar is a must-read for anyone seeking a book on death for preschoolers that handles the subject with care and compassion.

The Tenth Good Thing About Barney

by Judith Viorst

The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst is a heartwarming and comforting book about loss and grief, written specifically for preschoolers. The story follows a young boy who is mourning the death of his beloved cat, Barney. As he grapples with the concept of death and the feelings of sadness and confusion that come with it, the boy and his family come together to find ten good things to remember about Barney and celebrate his life. Through this process, the boy learns to cope with his feelings of loss and find peace in his memories of his furry friend.

This beautifully illustrated and sensitively written book gently introduces the topic of death to young children, offering a reassuring and age-appropriate perspective on a difficult subject. The Tenth Good Thing About Barney provides a valuable resource for parents, educators, and counselors seeking to help young children navigate the emotions and questions that arise when dealing with the loss of a pet or loved one. This book about death for preschoolers offers a gentle and compassionate approach to exploring the emotions surrounding loss.

The Dead Bird

by Margaret Wise Brown

The Dead Bird by Margaret Wise Brown is a touching and sensitive book about the topic of loss and grief, designed for preschool-aged children. The story follows a group of children who come across a dead bird and decide to give it a proper farewell. The book gently explores the theme of ‘death for preschoolers’ in a way that is both comforting and age-appropriate, allowing young readers to process the emotions that come with the loss of a loved one, pet, or even a wild animal.

Margaret Wise Brown’s simple and heartfelt prose, combined with the beautiful illustrations by Christian Robinson, creates a poignant and reassuring experience for young readers. The book offers a gentle introduction to the concept of ‘death for preschoolers’ and provides an opportunity for children to ask questions and express their feelings about the topic. The Dead Bird is a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and educators looking for a thoughtful and compassionate way to address the subject of ‘death for preschoolers’ with young children.

The Fall of Freddie the Leaf: A Story of Life for All Ages

by Leo Buscaglia

The Fall of Freddie the Leaf: A Story of Life for All Ages by Leo Buscaglia is a heartwarming and poignant book about the cycle of life and the concept of death for preschoolers. Through the story of Freddie, a young leaf who experiences the changing seasons and ultimately falls from the tree, children are gently introduced to the natural process of life and death.

Buscaglia’s beautifully illustrated book is a sensitive and comforting way for parents and educators to broach the topic of death for preschoolers. The story encourages a deeper understanding and acceptance of the inevitable changes in life, while also celebrating the beauty and significance of each individual’s journey.

The Fall of Freddie the Leaf is a timeless and essential addition to any library, offering a gentle and reassuring approach to the delicate subject of death for preschoolers. This book provides a valuable opportunity for young children to explore and comprehend the circle of life in a compassionate and accessible way.

The Saddest Time

by Norma Simon

The Saddest Time by Norma Simon is a gentle and sensitive book about death for preschoolers. This poignant story helps young children understand and process the concept of loss in a simple and reassuring way. Through heartwarming illustrations and comforting language, the book addresses the emotions and questions that arise when a loved one passes away.

Exploring the theme of death for preschoolers, the book provides guidance for parents and caregivers on how to support children through a difficult time. It offers a comforting and age-appropriate approach to discussing a topic that can be challenging for young minds to grasp.

The Saddest Time is a valuable resource for families, teachers, and counselors seeking to help children navigate the complex emotions surrounding loss. It is a tender and thoughtful book on death for preschoolers that gently encourages empathy, understanding, and healing.

The Heart and the Bottle

by Oliver Jeffers

The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers is a touching and poignant picture book that delicately tackles the theme of loss and grief for young readers. The story follows a young girl who, after experiencing a significant loss, decides to protect her heart by locking it away in a bottle. The girl’s world becomes colorless and lonely as she shuts herself off from the joys of life. However, a curious and persistent child helps her rediscover the beauty of the world and the importance of opening up her heart again.

This beautifully illustrated book gently introduces the concept of ‘loss’ to preschoolers, addressing the emotions and struggles that come with it in a sensitive and age-appropriate way. The Heart and the Bottle is a heartfelt and comforting story that can help young readers navigate the difficult topic of ‘death’ and the feelings that accompany it. Through its powerful storytelling and captivating illustrations, this book provides a hopeful message about healing and the resilience of the heart.

The Next Place

by Warren Hanson

The Next Place by Warren Hanson is a beautiful and comforting book about the concept of transition and the afterlife, making it a sensitive and thoughtful option for children dealing with loss. This poignant and gently reassuring story explores the idea that when someone passes away, they move to a new, peaceful place where they are free from pain and worry. The soothing and lyrical text, combined with the stunning and ethereal illustrations, creates a sense of hope and comfort, allowing young readers to explore the difficult topic of ‘death for preschoolers’ in a gentle and uplifting way.

The Funeral

by Matt James

The Funeral by Matt James is a poignant and heartwarming picture book about the delicate topic of death for preschoolers. Through beautiful illustrations and simple yet powerful storytelling, the book explores the experience of attending a funeral and the emotions that come with it. The story follows a young boy as he attends the funeral of his beloved uncle, navigating through the sadness and confusion that comes with saying goodbye to someone he loves. The book delicately portrays the rituals and emotions surrounding death, offering a gentle and comforting introduction to the topic for young readers. Matt James’ sensitive and compassionate approach makes this book a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers who are looking for a way to discuss death with preschoolers. The Funeral is a thoughtful and tender exploration of loss, grief, and the power of love, making it an essential addition to any collection of books about death for preschoolers.

The Goodbye Cancer Garden

by Janna Matthies

The Goodbye Cancer Garden is a poignant and beautifully illustrated book about the delicate topic of death for preschoolers. Written by Janna Matthies, this heartwarming story follows a young girl and her family as they navigate the difficult journey of saying goodbye to a loved one who is battling cancer. Through the vibrant illustrations and gentle storytelling, children are provided with a comforting and hopeful perspective on the concept of loss and the grieving process.

As the family tends to their garden, they find solace and healing in the beauty of nature, fostering a sense of peace and understanding. The Goodbye Cancer Garden offers a sensitive exploration of a challenging subject, providing young readers with a thoughtful and reassuring introduction to the complexities of life and loss. This book about death for preschoolers is a valuable resource for families, caregivers, and educators seeking to support children through difficult times while promoting empathy, resilience, and emotional well-being.

The Boy and the Whale

by Mordicai Gerstein

The Boy and the Whale by Mordicai Gerstein is a touching and beautifully illustrated book about loss for young readers. When a young boy discovers a whale trapped in a fishing net, he is determined to help save the majestic creature. As the boy works tirelessly to free the whale, he forms a deep bond with the gentle giant. However, despite his best efforts, the whale ultimately succumbs to its injuries. The boy is devastated by the loss, but he finds solace in the knowledge that he did everything he could to help the whale. This poignant book on death for preschoolers explores themes of empathy, compassion, and the cycle of life. The stunning illustrations and heartfelt story make it a powerful tool for parents and educators to help young children understand and process the concept of death for preschoolers in a gentle and age-appropriate way.

The Rough Patch

by Brian Lies

The Rough Patch by Brian Lies is a heartwarming and poignant picture book that addresses the theme of loss and grief in a gentle and accessible way for young readers. The story follows a fox named Evan who experiences the pain of losing his beloved pet dog, and the emotions that come with it. As Evan navigates through his grief, he discovers the healing power of friendship, gardening, and the passage of time.

Through beautiful illustrations and simple yet powerful language, the book provides a touching and age-appropriate exploration of loss, sorrow, and hope. It offers a valuable opportunity for parents and caregivers to have conversations with preschoolers about the difficult topic of death, and helps children understand that it’s okay to feel sad and that there are healthy ways to cope with the loss of a loved one.

The Rough Patch is a compassionate and tender book about death for preschoolers that gently guides young readers through the emotions of loss, ultimately leaving them with a message of resilience and healing.

The Forever Tree

by Tereasa Surratt

The Forever Tree by Tereasa Surratt is a heartwarming and comforting book about the concept of loss and remembrance for preschoolers. This beautifully illustrated book gently explores the theme of ‘saying goodbye’ in a way that is accessible and reassuring for young children. The story follows the journey of a little girl and her family as they experience the passing of their beloved tree. As they navigate their feelings of sadness and loss, they find a way to honor the tree’s memory and celebrate its enduring presence in their lives.

With its tender and poignant storytelling, The Forever Tree provides a sensitive and age-appropriate introduction to the topic of ‘saying goodbye’ for young readers. It offers a gentle and uplifting perspective on the cycle of life, making it a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and educators who are seeking to support children through the experience of loss. This book about ‘saying goodbye’ is a touching and meaningful addition to any preschooler’s library.

The Dead Family Diaz

by P.J. Bracegirdle

The Dead Family Diaz by P.J. Bracegirdle is a heartwarming and whimsical book about a family of skeletons who are just like any other family, except for the fact that they are, well, dead. This delightful and unique picture book introduces the concept of death in a lighthearted and approachable way, making it a perfect book about death for preschoolers.

Readers will follow the Diaz family as they navigate everyday activities, from dancing to playing music, all while embracing their skeletal forms. The story not only offers a gentle introduction to a difficult topic but also celebrates the importance of family and the enduring nature of love, even beyond life itself.

With charming illustrations and a touching message, The Dead Family Diaz is a reassuring and comforting book on death for preschoolers that encourages open conversations and understanding about the cycle of life. It’s a must-read for families looking for a sensitive and uplifting way to broach the subject of death for preschoolers.

I Miss You: A First Look at Death

by Pat Thomas

I Miss You: A First Look at Death by Pat Thomas is a gentle and sensitive book about loss and grief, designed to help young children understand and cope with the concept of death. Through simple language and colorful illustrations, the book explores the emotions that come with losing a loved one and offers reassurance and comfort to young readers.

This book on death for preschoolers provides an age-appropriate introduction to the topic of death, offering explanations and guidance for parents and caregivers on how to talk to young children about this difficult subject. It encourages open communication and provides space for children to express their feelings and ask questions about death and loss.

With its compassionate approach and practical advice, I Miss You: A First Look at Death is a valuable resource for families, teachers, and counselors seeking to support young children through the grieving process. This book about death for preschoolers offers a sensitive and understanding perspective on a challenging topic, helping children navigate their emotions and find comfort in difficult times.

Samantha Jane’s Missing Smile: A Story about Coping with the Loss of a Parent

by Julie Kaplow

Samantha Jane’s Missing Smile is a poignant and heartwarming book about coping with the loss of a parent by Julie Kaplow. This touching story follows Samantha Jane as she grapples with the death of her father and navigates the complex emotions that come with such a significant loss. Through beautiful illustrations and gentle storytelling, this book provides a comforting and relatable narrative for young children dealing with similar experiences.

Readers will accompany Samantha Jane as she learns to understand and process her feelings of sadness, confusion, and longing, ultimately finding small moments of joy and comfort along the way. The story delicately addresses the challenging topic of loss for preschoolers, offering a tender and reassuring portrayal of grief and healing. Samantha Jane’s Missing Smile is a valuable resource for families, caregivers, and educators looking to support children through the difficult journey of coping with the death of a parent.

Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children

by Bryan Mellonie

Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children by Bryan Mellonie is a gentle and heartfelt book about the concept of life and death for preschoolers. Written in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner, it aims to help children understand the natural process of life and the cycle of existence. The book delicately discusses the different lifetimes of living beings, from plants and animals to people, and how each lifetime comes to an end. Through its beautiful illustrations and simple language, the book provides a comforting and reassuring exploration of the topic, guiding children through their emotions and questions about death.

With its compassionate approach and thoughtful insights, Lifetimes offers a valuable resource for parents and caregivers to start conversations with young children about the concept of life and death. This book about death for preschoolers helps to foster understanding, empathy, and acceptance, making it an essential addition to any child’s library.

Final Thoughts on Best Death For Preschoolers Books

Exploring the topic of death with preschoolers can be challenging, but these 20 best books about Death For Preschoolers provide gentle and age-appropriate ways to approach the subject. With beautiful illustrations and thoughtful storytelling, these books can help young children navigate the concept of loss and understand their emotions. By incorporating these books into their reading routine, parents and educators can support children in processing their feelings and learning about this universal experience in a sensitive and nurturing way.

Which book about Death For Preschoolers is best?

The best book on Death For Preschoolers can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
  2. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst,
  3. The Memory Box: A Book About Grief by Joanna Rowland.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Death For Preschoolers?

For those looking to learn about Death For Preschoolers, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
  2. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst,
  3. The Memory Box: A Book About Grief by Joanna Rowland,
  4. The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld,
  5. The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic,
  6. The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst,
  7. The Dead Bird by Margaret Wise Brown,
  8. The Fall of Freddie the Leaf: A Story of Life for All Ages by Leo Buscaglia,
  9. The Saddest Time by Norma Simon,
  10. The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers

These books offer a range of perspectives on Death For Preschoolers, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Death For Preschoolers?

The best books about Death For Preschoolers are:

  • The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
  • The Invisible String by Patrice Karst,
  • The Next Place by Warren Hanson,
  • The Funeral by Matt James,
  • The Fall of Freddie the Leaf: A Story of Life for All Ages by Leo Buscaglia,
  • The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Death For Preschoolers 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 Preschoolers books of all time?

Choosing the best Death For Preschoolers books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
  • The Invisible String by Patrice Karst,
  • The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic,
  • The Fall of Freddie the Leaf: A Story of Life for All Ages by Leo Buscaglia,
  • and The Next Place by Warren Hanson.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Death For Preschoolers and continues to be influential today.