5 Must-Read Books for Children Dealing with Grief

Grief is a natural emotion that we all experience at some point in their lives. For children, dealing with loss can be especially challenging as they may struggle to comprehend and express their feelings. Reading can be a powerful tool to help children process grief in a way that is designed to be easier to understand. In this blog, we will explore five books that address various aspects of grief, for different age groups and relationships.

For older children: "Bridge to Terabithia" by Katherine Paterson

Katherine Paterson's timeless classic, "Bridge to Terabithia," is a story of friendship and loss. The story follows a young boy who befriends an imaginative and adventurous girl. Together, they create a magical world called Terabithia, where they can escape the hardships of reality. However, tragedy strikes, and the protagonist must navigate the complex emotions of grief and loss. This book beautifully portrays the journey of acceptance and how friendship can provide comfort during difficult times.

For Parental Bereavement: "The Scar" by Charlotte Moundlic and Olivier Tallec

This touching picture book addresses the particularly hard topic of parental bereavement with sensitivity and warmth. The story revolves around a young boy who wakes up one day to find his mother absent. As he searches for her throughout the day, he comes to terms with her sudden passing. This heartwarming book gently introduces the concept of death and portrays how the young protagonist navigates the range of emotions that accompany grief, including confusion, sadness, and acceptance. "The Scar" serves as a valuable resource for children experiencing the loss of a parent, guiding them toward understanding what has occurred.

"The Memory Box: A Book About Grief" by Joanna Rowland

"The Memory Box" is a compassionate book that helps children understand grief when a friend or peer has passed or experienced a loss themselves. Written in gentle, rhyming language, it introduces the concept of memories as precious gifts that can bring comfort during difficult times. The story follows a young girl who creates a memory box to honour her friend who has passed away, preserving the special moments they shared. This book encourages empathy and offers a thoughtful way for young readers to cope with their feelings of loss.

For Any Grieving Child: "The Goodbye Book" by Todd Parr

This is a heartfelt story that caters to any child dealing with loss, whether it be the death of a loved one, a pet, or a significant life change. This colourful and engaging picture book explores the many emotions associated with saying goodbye, such as sadness, confusion, and loneliness. Todd Parr's uplifting and reassuring approach provides comfort to young readers, assuring them that it's okay to feel a wide range of emotions during difficult times. With simple and relatable illustrations, "The Goodbye Book" is an excellent resource for children looking to navigate the complexities of grief.

For Coping with Change: "The Fall of Freddie the Leaf" by Leo Buscaglia

"The Fall of Freddie the Leaf" is a thoughtful book that delves into the theme of change and the cycle of life. Written by renowned author and lecturer Leo Buscaglia, this allegorical tale revolves around Freddie, a leaf on a tree, as he experiences the changing seasons. This beautifully illustrated book encourages young readers to embrace the natural process of life, including the inevitability of death. By embracing the metaphor of falling leaves, children can find solace in the idea that change is a normal part of our lives and that each life has a unique purpose.

Books can be comforting for children as they navigate the complex emotions of grief. Whether coping with the death of a loved one, a friend, or facing significant life changes, these five books serve as valuable tools to help children find comfort, empathy, and hope during challenging times. Reading and discussing these stories with children can open conversations about grief, emotions, and the importance of supporting one another through difficult moments in life.