Bereavement books for children
There are a number of children's books available online about bereavement and grief. Reading books about death can help a child understand what's happened better and realise they’re not alone.
If you are buying for a child, please do check that the book is appropriate for the individual child or young person, taking into account factors such as age, who they have lost and whether they have a particular faith.
The Heart and the Bottle
The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers tells the story of a little girl who shuts her heart away in a bottle for safety after the loss of someone close. But after that it seemed that the world was emptier than before.
Sad Book
Michael Rosen's Sad Book tells of his struggles with sadness following the loss of his son Eddie at age 19. A powerful account of grief with illustrations by Quentin Blake. A book for all ages.
Badgers Parting Gift
Many families have found this book useful when helping children to come to terms with the death of someone close. It tells the story of Badger’s peaceful death and his friends remembering what Badger taught them while he was alive.
The Invisible String
The Invisible String looks at how to cope with loneliness and separation from someone you love. Suitable for ages three and above.
Water bugs and dragonflies: explaining death to young children
A storybook which helps to answer some of the questions children might have about death, by telling the story of a water bug who turns into a dragonfly.
