Grief and Loss: Picture books for young children

Books about the loss of a pet or a loved one, grief, death and dying for the very young.

Updated May 9, 2026
Drag items up and down to your preferred order then select the "Save Order" button.
Daddy & me, side by side
Freelon, Pierce
Paper Book
Each day is a grand family adventure with the fathers and sons in this lyrical picture book filled with lush illustrations.   A young son and his father trek through trees and listen to birdsong, dig for worms and go fishing, and enjoy the breeze sitting side by...
Just what to do
Lukoff, Kyle
Paper Book
A tender picture book about grief and the many ways to offer comfort in sad times, from Newbery Honor-winner Kyle Lukoff. When you see someone sad, it's only natural to want to cheer them up. But how? Some people like hugs but others don't. Sometimes a joke is more comforting...
Always remember
Meng, Cece
Paper Book
A lyrically told, beautifully illustrated book that brings comfort to children--and adults--who have lost someone they love After Old Turtle swims his last swim and breathes his last breath, and the waves gently take him away, his friends lovingly remember how he impacted each...
The goodbye book
Parr, Todd
Paper Book
From New York Times bestselling author Todd Parr comes this poignant and reassuring story about loss.  With his colorful illustrations, playful humor, and inclusive storytelling, beloved author Todd Parr has long been a favorite among young readers and...
What happens when a loved one dies? : our first talk about death
Roberts, Jillian
Paper Book
Whether children are experiencing grief and loss for the first time or simply curious, it can be difficult to know how to talk to them about death. Using questions posed in a child's voice and answers that start simply and become more in-depth, this book allows adults to guide the...
If you were here
Stinson, Kathy
Paper Book
For kids ages 3-7, this lyrical picture book explores the complex emotions around missing a loved one, with stunning illustrations by Ojibwe artist Maya McKibbin. I wish I could show you... this great big meadow, like a sea of lacy clouds.... In...
Something very sad happened : a toddler's guide to understanding death
Zucker, Bonnie
Paper Book
A Gentle, Supportive Story to Help Young Children Understand the Death of a Loved One This compassionate picture book gives very young children a simple and honest way to understand death and the feelings that come with losing someone they love. Written for two- and three-year-olds, the...

Library staff! You can create and contribute to lists. Contact your catalog administrator or log in here.