Children's Picture Books
This list includes resources for children on loss and illness of a grandparent, loved one, or pet as well as understanding death and illness.
Champ's story : dogs get cancer too!
North, Sherry
2010
A story of a young boy whose dog is diagnosed with cancer. The boy becomes a loving caretaker to his dog, who undergoes the same types of treatments as a human under similar circumstances. Includes "For Creative Minds" educational section.
I miss my grandpa
Jin, Xiaojing author, illustrator
2019
A child asks different family members about her late grandfather and learns of his characteristics through the features he passed down to his children and grandchildren.
The invisible leash
Karst, Patrice, author
2019
Emily tries to comfort her best friend, Zack, whose dog Jojo recently died, by telling him about the "Invisible Leash" that connects each owner to his or her deceased pet.
A last goodbye
Kelsey, Elin, author
2020
This book explores the death of a loved one through the parallel experiences of other species of animals, similar to Elin's treatment of nature in You Are Stardust and problem-solving in Wild Ideas. As with Elin's previous picture books, A Last Goodbye will combine simple, poetic text with a "big idea"--in this case, the idea that death is a natural part of our lives and that many species experience sadness and mourning when their loved ones are sick and dying. From elephants to whales, parrots to bonobos, and lemurs to humans, we all have rituals to commemorate our loved ones and to lift each other up in difficult times. The book ends on a hopeful note, showing how we live on not only in memories, but also on the planet, our bodies nourishing new life in the Earth and the oceans. At once sad and uplifting, this meaningful book celebrates human and animal life.
Lasting love
Wright, Caroline, author
2019
What happens when someone you love gets very, very sick? In this story, when a young child's mother gets sick, a magical creature appears. It grows and grows, just like a mother's love. Even as her illness takes a turn for the worse and the child faces tragedy, he can see the creature will always be there. Forever and ever. Terminal illness and its effect on a loved one is a hard thing for anyone to understand, especially a child. Written by a parent who has faced these possibilities, this touching book is an invaluable toll to help children cope with grief.
Losing a family member
Duhig, Holly.
2019
Young readers are introduced to the important and sensitive topic of losing a family member in this age-appropriate and accessible book. The struggles of dealing with a loved one's death, including the grieving process and the difficult questions asked during it, are addressed within this relatable narrative. The carefully crafted text inspires thoughtful discussion about life, death, and grief. Helpful fact boxes, vibrant, full-color photographs, and scrapbook-inspired design elements guide readers through this important resource for young people working through their own grief or looking to help a friend who is dealing with loss.
When people die
Lacey, Jane.
2019
"Death is difficult to deal with at any age, but for children who are handling it for the first time, it can be extra tough. This engaging book will help young readers learn to navigate this type of situation. Whether it is a friend, family member, or acquaintance who has passed away, readers will learn about the best ways to handle death through the help of relatable stories and colorful illustrations. Practical advice is presented in a way readers of all ages can understand and implement into their own lives."--Amazon.com.