Best Books About Death For Kids. 2024 Edition

Are you searching for the perfect book on death for kids to help them navigate the difficult topic of loss? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the 20 best death for kids books that delicately handle the subject with sensitivity and compassion. From heartwarming stories to gentle explanations, these books offer valuable guidance for children dealing with the concept of death. Let’s dive into our selection of the most impactful and comforting books about death for kids.

20 Best Books About Death For Kids

The Memory Box

by Mary Bahr

The Memory Box by Mary Bahr is a touching and poignant book about death for kids. It tells the story of a young girl named Lizzie who is struggling to cope with the death of her grandfather. As she searches for a way to hold on to her memories of him, Lizzie creates a memory box filled with mementos and reminders of their time together. Through this process, she learns about the importance of remembering loved ones and finds comfort in the memories she has collected. This book about death for kids is a beautiful and sensitive exploration of grief and the healing power of remembrance. It is a must-read for children who are dealing with loss and looking for a way to honor the memory of someone they have loved and lost.

The Goodbye Book

by Todd Parr

The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr is a heartfelt and comforting book about loss and saying goodbye. With its colorful and engaging illustrations, this book helps children navigate the difficult emotions that come with death. It gently explores the feelings of sadness, confusion, and loneliness that may arise when a loved one passes away. Through simple and reassuring language, the book offers support and understanding to children as they process their grief. The Goodbye Book is a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers looking for a sensitive and compassionate way to address the topic of death with young readers. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a thoughtful and compassionate book about death for kids.

The Invisible String

by Patrice Karst

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst is a heartwarming book about the powerful connection between loved ones, even when they are physically apart. This book is perfect for children who are dealing with the concept of loss or separation. Through beautiful illustrations and a touching storyline, the book explores the idea that we are all connected by an invisible string of love that can never be broken, no matter where we are. The Invisible String is a comforting and reassuring read for children, providing them with a sense of security and comfort during difficult times. It’s a must-have for any child who may be struggling with the concept of loss or separation, making it a valuable resource for parents, educators, and caregivers alike.

The Tenth Good Thing About Barney

by Judith Viorst

The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst is a heartwarming book about dealing with the loss of a beloved pet. The story follows a young boy who is struggling to come to terms with the death of his cat, Barney. Through the boy’s journey of grief and acceptance, the book addresses the theme of loss and the importance of finding ways to cope with it. The boy finds comfort in remembering the ten good things about Barney, which helps him to eventually find peace. This poignant and beautifully illustrated book about death for kids provides a gentle and age-appropriate way to introduce children to the concept of death and the emotions that come with it.

The Fall of Freddie the Leaf

by Leo Buscaglia

The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia is a heartwarming book about the cycle of life and the concept of death for kids. The story follows Freddie, a young leaf who experiences the changing seasons and learns about the natural process of life and death. Through Freddie’s journey, readers are gently introduced to the idea of mortality and the beauty of embracing change. With its touching narrative and beautiful illustrations, this book about death for kids offers a gentle and comforting exploration of the inevitable cycle of life. Leo Buscaglia’s timeless classic provides a sensitive and thoughtful approach to understanding the concept of death, making it a valuable resource for children and families navigating the complexities of loss and transition.

The Saddest Time

by Norma Simon

The Saddest Time by Norma Simon is a sensitive and compassionate book about loss and grief for children. This touching book gently addresses the difficult topic of death for kids, helping them understand and cope with their emotions. Through thoughtful and comforting words, the author guides young readers through the experience of losing a loved one, offering reassurance and understanding. The book about death for kids provides a space for children to express their feelings and ask questions, while also highlighting the importance of memories and the healing power of love. With its gentle approach and heartfelt message, The Saddest Time is a valuable resource for families and caregivers seeking to support children during a challenging time.

The Next Place

by Warren Hanson

The Next Place by Warren Hanson is a touching and comforting book about the concept of ‘passing away’ for children. Through beautiful and poignant illustrations, the book explores the idea of a place beyond this life, where the soul can find peace and happiness. It gently addresses the topic of loss and offers a sense of hope and reassurance to young readers. The book’s gentle and uplifting tone makes it a wonderful resource for parents and caregivers looking to discuss the difficult subject of ‘saying goodbye’ with children. With its soothing and thoughtful message, The Next Place provides a sense of comfort and understanding for children and adults alike, making it a valuable addition to any library.

The Heart and the Bottle

by Oliver Jeffers

The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers is a poignant and beautifully illustrated book about loss and grief. It tells the story of a young girl who, after experiencing a great loss, decides to protect her heart from further pain by locking it away in a bottle. As the girl grows older, she realizes that by closing herself off from the world, she has also closed herself off from joy and love. This moving tale gently explores the themes of sorrow, healing, and the importance of keeping our hearts open, even in the face of sadness. With its touching story and stunning artwork, The Heart and the Bottle is a must-read for children dealing with the concept of loss or looking for a book about death for kids.

The Dead Bird

by Margaret Wise Brown

The Dead Bird by Margaret Wise Brown is a gentle and touching book about loss and the emotions that come with it. The story follows a group of children who find a dead bird and decide to give it a proper farewell. As they gather together and reflect on the bird’s life, they experience a range of emotions, from sadness to acceptance. The book delicately explores the concept of death for kids, allowing them to process their feelings and understand the natural cycle of life. Through beautiful illustrations and simple, comforting language, The Dead Bird provides a sensitive and thoughtful way for children to learn about death and the grieving process. It serves as a valuable resource for families and educators looking for a book about death for kids that is both comforting and informative.

The Scar

by Charlotte Moundlic

The Scar, written by Charlotte Moundlic, is a poignant and heartfelt book about a young boy dealing with the loss of his mother. The story follows the boy as he navigates through the difficult emotions that come with grief, and the physical scar he bears from the trauma of her death. Moundlic delicately explores the complex emotions of loss, anger, and sadness, while also showing the boy’s resilience and ability to find hope and healing. This beautifully illustrated book offers a sensitive and honest portrayal of the grieving process, making it a valuable resource for children who are experiencing their own feelings of sorrow and loss. The Scar is a touching and tender exploration of the difficult topic of death for kids, and a reminder that love and memories can help heal even the deepest wounds.

The Funeral

by Matt James

The Funeral by Matt James is a poignant and beautifully illustrated book about the delicate subject of loss and grief for children. This book on death for kids follows a young boy as he attends his first funeral, experiencing a mix of emotions and observations. Through vibrant and expressive illustrations, the author captures the child’s journey of understanding the concept of saying goodbye and the complexities of the funeral process. The book about death for kids gently explores how different people react to death and how they honor and remember their loved ones. With sensitivity and honesty, The Funeral provides a comforting and relatable story for children to navigate the difficult topic of death. This death for kids book offers a thoughtful and engaging way for young readers to explore their feelings and questions about loss.

The Rabbit Listened

by Cori Doerrfeld

The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld is a heartwarming and tender story about empathy, understanding, and healing. When a young child experiences a loss, various animals try to help by offering advice and solutions. However, it’s the rabbit who simply sits quietly and listens, providing comfort and support without judgment. Through its gentle illustrations and touching narrative, the book teaches children about the importance of empathy and the power of simply being there for someone in need. This beautiful and poignant story is a must-read for anyone looking for a book about death for kids that addresses the difficult topic with sensitivity and understanding.

The Boy and the Whale

by Mordicai Gerstein

The Boy and the Whale by Mordicai Gerstein is a heartwarming and poignant book about a young boy’s encounter with a stranded whale. When the boy discovers the whale stuck on a beach, he is determined to help the magnificent creature return to the sea. As he works tirelessly to save the whale, the story delves into themes of compassion, bravery, and the circle of life. The book beautifully illustrates the bond that forms between the boy and the whale, and the emotional journey they embark on together. With stunning illustrations and a touching narrative, The Boy and the Whale is a powerful exploration of life, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a meaningful and moving story to share with children. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a book about death for kids.

The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye

by Jane Yolen

The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye by Jane Yolen is a heartwarming and tender book about death for kids. When Tiger Rose, a beloved pet, is nearing the end of her life, her young owner must come to terms with the impending loss. Through gentle and comforting prose, the book explores the themes of love, loss, and the inevitability of saying goodbye. Yolen’s touching story is accompanied by beautiful illustrations that capture the emotional journey of the characters. This book on death for kids provides a sensitive and reassuring way to introduce young readers to the concept of losing a loved one, whether human or animal. The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye is a poignant and comforting resource for children navigating the difficult emotions that come with the loss of a cherished companion.

The Rough Patch

by Brian Lies

The Rough Patch by Brian Lies is a heartwarming and poignant picture book that explores the theme of loss and grief in a gentle and touching way. The story follows a fox named Evan who experiences a devastating loss when his beloved pet dog, and best friend, dies. Evan struggles with the pain of his grief and goes through a “rough patch” as he navigates the difficult emotions that come with losing a loved one. The book beautifully depicts Evan’s journey through grief, as well as the healing power of friendship, nature, and the passage of time. With stunning illustrations and a touching narrative, The Rough Patch is a must-read for anyone looking for a sensitive and comforting book about death for kids.

The Goodbye Cancer Garden

by Janna Matthies

The Goodbye Cancer Garden by Janna Matthies is a touching and heartfelt book about navigating the difficult topic of death for kids. The story follows a young girl named Emma, who learns that her beloved neighbor, Mr. Thomas, has cancer. Emma and her friends decide to create a special garden for Mr. Thomas to bring him comfort and joy during his difficult time. As they work on the garden, Emma learns about the cycle of life and the beauty of memories. The book sensitively addresses the emotions and questions that arise when facing the loss of a loved one, making it a valuable resource for families and caregivers. With its gentle approach and beautiful illustrations, The Goodbye Cancer Garden provides a comforting and hopeful perspective on death for kids.

The Funeral

by Eve Bunting

The Funeral by Eve Bunting is a touching and sensitive book about death for kids. The story follows a young boy as he attends his beloved grandfather’s funeral. Through the boy’s eyes, readers experience the emotions and rituals surrounding death. The book explores the themes of grief, loss, and the importance of family coming together to mourn and celebrate the life of a loved one. With its gentle and comforting tone, The Funeral provides a valuable resource for children dealing with the difficult topic of death. Bunting’s poignant storytelling and illustrations by Donald Carrick create a moving and memorable exploration of the universal experience of loss. This death for kids book offers a thoughtful and compassionate way to introduce children to the concept of death and the feelings that come with it.

The Invisible Leash

by Patrice Karst

The Invisible Leash by Patrice Karst is a heartwarming and tender book about loss and the enduring bond between a child and a loved one who has passed away. This beautifully illustrated book gently addresses the difficult topic of death for kids, offering comfort and understanding. Through the story, children are reassured that even though their loved one may no longer be physically present, they are still connected by an invisible leash of love that can never be broken. The book helps children navigate the complex emotions that come with loss, providing them with a sense of hope and healing. The Invisible Leash is a touching and poignant resource for families and caregivers seeking to support children through the grieving process.

I Miss You: A First Look at Death

by Pat Thomas

I Miss You: A First Look at Death by Pat Thomas is a gentle and compassionate book about loss for children. This sensitive and informative book helps young readers understand and cope with the difficult and emotional topic of death. The book addresses the various emotions that children may experience when someone they love passes away, and offers reassurance and comfort in a way that children can understand. With its simple language and beautiful illustrations, it provides a comprehensive and age-appropriate introduction to the concept of loss, making it a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers who are looking for a book about death for kids. This book on death for kids is a supportive and insightful guide for children who are struggling to come to terms with the loss of a loved one.

Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children

by Bryan Mellonie and Robert Ingpen

Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children is a tender and comforting book that gently introduces the concept of the natural cycle of life. Written by Bryan Mellonie and beautifully illustrated by Robert Ingpen, this sensitive book on death for kids uses simple language and evocative images to convey the idea that all living things have a beginning, a middle, and an end. Through its poetic and reassuring narrative, the book about death for kids gently explains the concept of ‘lifetimes’ – the idea that everything in nature, including plants, animals, and people, has a lifetime. This heartfelt and poignant death for kids book provides a sensitive way for children to understand the concept of life and death, making it an invaluable resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers.

Conclusion

Exploring the topic of death with children can be a challenging but important task. These 20 best books about Death For Kids provide gentle and insightful ways to help young readers navigate the difficult emotions and questions that arise when facing loss. Through beautiful storytelling and sensitive illustrations, these books offer comfort, understanding, and hope. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a pet, or simply the concept of mortality, these books are valuable resources for parents, teachers, and caregivers looking to support children through the grieving process.

Which Death For Kids book is best?

The best book on Death For Kids can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Memory Box by Mary Bahr,
  2. The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
  3. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Death For Kids?

For those looking to learn about Death For Kids, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Memory Box by Mary Bahr,
  2. The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr,
  3. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst,
  4. The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst,
  5. The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia,
  6. The Saddest Time by Norma Simon,
  7. The Next Place by Warren Hanson,
  8. The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers,
  9. The Dead Bird by Margaret Wise Brown,
  10. The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic

These books offer a range of perspectives on Death For Kids, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books on Death For Kids?

The best books on Death For Kids include:

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Death For Kids are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Death For Kids books of all time?

Choosing the best Death For Kids books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include