Difficult Topics for Kids: Incarceration and Deportation

Sometimes we have to learn about difficult things like losing family members to incarceration and deportation. This list of books can help us start the conversation.

Updated October 28, 2025
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Buffalo and Erie County Public Library
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Far apart, close in heart : being a family when a loved one is incarcerated
Birtha, Becky
Paper Book
Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2017 - Best Picture Books to Give Readers Strength STARRED REVIEW! "This book is a necessary one."--Kirkus Reviews starred review STARRED REVIEW! "A highly recommended title that...
My brother is away
Greenwood, Sara
Paper Book
In this moving picture book, a young girl reflects on the emotions and challenges of growing up with a brother who is incarcerated. This touching story is filled with vivid illustrations and is based on the author's childhood experiences. An NCTE Charlotte Huck Award Honor Book .<...
Milo imagines the world
de la Pen?a, Matt
Paper Book
Visiting day
Woodson, Jacqueline.
Paper Book
Coretta Scott King Award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson has written a poignant picture book about a little girl who waits hopefully for her father's release from prison. Only on visiting day is there chicken frying in the kitchen at 6 a.m. And Grandma in her Sunday dress, humming...

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