Reading can be a powerful tool to help children process grief. Stories provide a safe space to explore emotions, offer comfort, and help kids understand loss in a way that feels relatable. Whether a child is coping with the death of a loved one or learning about grief for the first time, the right book can make a world of difference.
Here are some of the best children’s books about grief and loss, categorized by age group.
Books for Young Children (Ages 3-6)
At this stage, kids need simple explanations and reassuring messages. These books use gentle storytelling and illustrations to introduce the concept of loss.
- The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr – A brightly illustrated book that helps young children understand emotions surrounding loss.
- I Miss You: A First Look at Death by Pat Thomas – Provides a straightforward and comforting explanation about what happens when someone dies.
- When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death by Laurie Krasny Brown & Marc Brown – Uses dinosaurs to teach kids about loss in an age-appropriate way.
Books for Early Elementary (Ages 6-9)
Kids in this age group begin to ask more complex questions about death. These books address grief while offering hope and reassurance.
- The Invisible String by Patrice Karst – A heartwarming story about how love connects us even after someone is gone.
- Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children by Bryan Mellonie & Robert Ingpen – Explains that everything has a beginning and an end, helping kids understand the cycle of life.
- Badger’s Parting Gifts by Susan Varley – A touching story about how memories keep loved ones close even after they’re gone.
Books for Older Children (Ages 9-12)
At this stage, children can engage in deeper conversations about grief. These books help them explore emotions and find ways to heal.
- Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson – A classic novel about friendship, loss, and the power of imagination.
- A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness – A beautifully written story about a boy coping with his mother’s terminal illness.
- The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin – Explores grief through the eyes of a young girl struggling to understand loss.
Books for Teens (Ages 13+)
Teenagers process grief in complex ways. These books tackle difficult emotions while offering hope and healing.
- The Fault in Our Stars by John Green – A heartfelt novel about love, loss, and making the most of the time we have.
- They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera – A thought-provoking story about living fully despite the inevitability of loss.
- We Are Okay by Nina LaCour – A moving novel about grief, isolation, and finding connection again.
How Books Can Help Children Process Grief
Reading about grief allows children to see their feelings reflected in a story, making them feel less alone. Books provide language for difficult emotions, encourage conversations, and help kids find comfort during tough times.
If you’re supporting a grieving child, reading together and discussing the story can open the door for honest conversations about their own emotions.
At Jurni, we're working to bring these themes of grief, healing, and hope to life through an animated short film inspired by our story. If you’d like to support this project, please visit our Kickstarter campaign or learn more on the Jurni website. Together, we can create something meaningful for families navigating their own journeys.