Difficult Topics for Kids: Grief

Sometimes we have to learn about difficult things like death, and grief. 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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A last goodbye
Kelsey, Elin
Paper Book
How do we say goodbye to a loved one after they die? This book broaches a difficult topic in a heartfelt way by exploring the beauty in how animals mourn. From elephants to whales, parrots to bonobos, and lemurs to humans, we all have rituals to commemorate our loved ones and to lift each other up...
Birdsong
Flett, Julie
Ebook
Grandpa and the kingfisher
Wilson, Anna
Paper Book
Life-affirming and lyrical, this beautiful picture book celebrates the awesome power of nature and the circle of life. Over the course of a year, a young child and their dog watch kingfishers by the river with Grandpa. As spring turns to summer and autumn to winter, the...
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...
We need to talk about death : an important book about grief, celebrations, and love
Chavez, Sarah
Paper Book
An educational book that helps grieving children understand what happens when we die, and celebrates the traditions people around the world use to honor the dead. Death is an important part of life, and yet it is one of the hardest things to talk about--for adults as well as...

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