Picture Books About Grief

Check out these books if you're looking for a way to help talk to your child about the loss of a pet or loved one.

Updated June 12, 2024
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Remembering
González, Xelena
Paper Book
Three starred reviews! A Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor Book A Chicago Public Library Best Book A family remembers their beloved pet dog through the traditions of Día de Muertos in this "gorgeous, deeply touching exploration of grief and remembrance" (...
Rodney was a tortoise
Forler, Nan
Paper Book
Bernadette and Rodney are the best of friends. Rodney's not so good at playing cards, but he's great at staring contests. His favorite food is lettuce, though he eats it VERRRRRRY SLOOOOOWLY. And he's such a joker! When Bernadette goes to sleep at night, Rodney is always there, watching over her...
Pumpkin and me
Acosta, Alicia
Paper Book
When Pumpkin, my dog, died, everyone at home was sad. The next day, a dark cloud began to follow me around and it felt like I had soap in my eyes and an octopus wrapped tightly around my heart... Written by the renowned child author and psychologist, Alicia Acosta, this uplifting, beautifully...
Maybe tomorrow?
Agell, Charlotte
Paper Book
This affectionate, deeply soothing story exemplifies how to comfort someone who is hurting. A wonderful gift for any occasion, perfect for fans of The Rabbit Listened. "[Offers] hope that the world can be beautiful place." --School Library Journal Elba has a big...
A walk in the woods
Grimes, Nikki
Paper Book
In this moving account of loss, a boy takes a walk in the woods and makes a discovery that changes his understanding of his father. week after the funeral I stare in the morning mirror Angry that my father's eyes Stare back at me.
Daddy & me, side by side
Freelon, Pierce
Paper Book
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 side, just like Pop Pop and Daddy did, years ago. A heartfelt and hopeful tale that touches on grieving the loss of a loved one as a father and son...
Goodbye : a first conversation about grief
Madison, Megan
Paper Book
A picture book edition of the board book about grief, offering adults the opportunity to begin important conversations with young children in an informed, safe, and supported way. Developed by experts in the fields of early childhood and activism against injustice, this topic...
When grandfather flew
MacLachlan, Patricia
Paper Book
A grieving boy remembers his grandfather and the hobby they shared, in this moving evocation of love and loss by a Newbery Medalist. Milo's grandfather is fascinated by birds. He admires their freedom and never loses an opportunity to point out the things that make each one...

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