Conversations in Grief Blog: Books for Grieving Children
Books for Grieving Children
by Hilary Furnish
Grief doesn’t wait for us to grow up. In Wisconsin, it is estimated that one in 12 children will lose a parent or sibling by the time they reach the age of 18. This statistic does not include losses related to grandparents, extended family, or pets. For many caregivers, figuring out what to say or how to support a grieving child can be overwhelming.
At Rainbow Community Care, our bereavement team frequently assists children and their caregivers in navigating the difficult journey of loss. One resource we often use is picture books. Stories that employ thoughtful language and helpful illustrations to discuss death, dying, and coping with grief. In this blog, I have compiled a list of some of our favorites.
These stories illustrate how grief not only impacts us personally, but also how it affects families. While this topic is often difficult to address, the stories also provide coping strategies and ways to nurture hope after experiencing loss. This is not an exhaustive list but includes just a few of our favorites. For more suggestions on how to support grieving children or for one-on-one assistance, please contact us at Rainbow Community Care.
Grief Books
What Does Grief Feel Like – by Dr. Korie Leigh, Ph.D. & Mikr Malbrough
In this book, Dr. Leigh offers insights into the emotions we may experience when losing a loved one, suggestions for coping, and a guide for caregivers who support grieving children. Questions throughout the book invite children to share what they are thinking, feeling, and going through.
My Big, Dumb, Invisible Dragon – by Angie Lucas & Birgitta Sif
This is the story of how grief often shows up and takes control of every aspect of our lives. In this narrative, grief is represented as an Invisible Dragon, illustrating how we learn to create space for grief in our lives.
One Wave at a Time: A Story About Grief and Healing – by Holly Thompson & Ashley Crowley
Grief is often described as coming in waves. This book explores the different waves of grief and their impact on one family. In the story they learn to ride the waves and nurture hope after loss.
I Can’t Believe They’re Gone: A kid's grief book that hugs, helps, and gives hope – by Karen Brough & Hiruni Kariyawasam
A family of mice has experienced a loss, and each member is responding in their own unique way. This book highlights how grief varies from person to person and emphasizes that, despite these differences, we can honor and support one another as we grieve.
Pocket Full of Sads – by Brad Davidson & Rachel Más Davidson
Bear is grieving, and Rabbit is trying to help cheer him up. This story, featuring colorful illustrations and an amusing narrative, demonstrates how grief can impact our lives and offers guidance on supporting friends and family who are grieving.
The Hole – by Lindsay Bonilla & Brizida Magro
This book explores the way the world changes after the loss of a loved one. A boy sees holes left by his little brother’s absence and discovers how to grieve in ways that are supportive to him. The story illustrates the way grief impacts us after a loss and highlights how staying connected through memories and sharing stories about our loved ones can help fill in those holes.
What Happens After? – by Diane Namm & Laura Jäger
What is life like after losing a loved one? This book delves into the emotions experienced during this difficult time and discusses ways to maintain a connection with those who have passed away. It encourages readers to carry their loved one's memories with them throughout their lives, honoring these memories while also supporting their grief.
Books on Death & Dying
What Happens When Someone I Love Can’t Get Better: A Book to Prepare and Cope with End of life – by Sarah Olsher & Jenni Rogers
This book provides a clear understanding of the natural end that all living creatures face and how home life may change when someone is in hospice care. Through colorful illustrations and compassionate language, the authors encourage children and their caregivers to engage in meaningful conversations about end of life.
When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death (Dino Tales: Life Guides for Families) – by Laurie Krasny Brown & Marc Brown
This is a colorful and thoughtfully written book that explores both the end of life and the ways we honor our loved ones after they pass away. It explains what children can expect in clear language, presenting the information in a helpful manner.
