Below are recommended resources that have been reviewed by caregivers at our hospital for appropriateness for children. Most local bookstores and public libraries have a wide variety of books related to grief and bereavement. You may find that there are other books that are well-suited for your individual needs and circumstances
PreSchool / Young School-Age Children
A Terrible Thing Happened - A story for children who have witnessed violence or trauma
Sherman saw something very terrible happen. He tried to forget but he couldn’t. Ms. Maple helped him talk about what happened, and that made Sherman feel much better. Includes a caregivers’ section.
After the Funeral
This book addresses common concerns children may have after the loss of a loved one. Children are reassured that other people feel the same way through talking about their feelings.
Am I Still a Sister?
This book was written when the author was eleven and reflects the discoveries she made after her baby brother died.
I Know I Made it Happen: Children and Guilt
A look at feelings when there’s a family fight, divorce, illness, injury, or death. Provides children with support and understanding during crises.
Jackie Jack, The Brave Little Boy
This book is about Jackie Jack, a brave little boy who becomes very ill. His parents love and comfort Jackie Jack until he dies. The beautiful illustrations by Renee Orlet Comerford complete this story that can be used for death of a sibling, friend or any family member.
Lifetimes
This is a wonderful book to help young children understand life and death. It uses examples of nature to explain death as something that happens to all living things. It is very concrete and understandable for young children. Beautiful illustrations.
No New Baby: For siblings who have a brother or sister die before birth
For siblings who have a brother or sister die before birth. Grandma explains that no one is to blame for deaths, and that we don’t always have answers for why things like this happen (available in Spanish).
School-Age Children
Am I Still a Sister?
This book was written when Allie Sims was eleven and reflects the discoveries she made after her baby brother died.
After the Funeral
This book addresses common concerns children may have after the loss of a loved one. Children are reassured that other people feel the same way through talking about their feelings.
The Fall of Freddie the Leaf
A simple story about a leaf named Freddie. Freddie's companion leaves, changing with the passing seasons and finally falling to the ground with winter’s snow. The wonderful story is warm and illustrates the delicate balance between life and death.
Jackie Jack, The Brave Little Boy
This book is about Jackie Jack, a brave little boy who becomes very ill. His parents love and comfort Jackie Jack until he dies. The beautiful illustrations by Renee Orlet Comerford complete this story that can be used for death of a sibling, friend or any family member.
Lifetimes
This is a wonderful book to help young children understand life and death. It uses examples of nature to explain death as something that happens to all living things. It is very concrete and understandable for young children. Beautiful illustrations.
The Next Place
Broad spiritual perspective, no particular religious tradition.
No New Baby: For siblings who have a brother or sister die before birth
For siblings who have a brother or sister die before birth. Grandma explains that no one is to blame for deaths, and that we don’t always have answers for why things like this happen (available in Spanish).
Sam’s Dad Died: A child's book of hope through grief
Molly’s Mom Died: A child's book of hope through grief
These two picture books by Margaret Holmes have gentle illustrations and reassuring text to help young children understand the grief process. The books validate both the negative and positive feelings and the behaviors that are typical for children who have lost a parent. There is a caregiver section at the back of the book that could help adults answer questions and deal with particular concerns.
Sweet Memories
This collection of ideas will help children make scrapbooks and do special craft projects to memorialize a special person. While this book is written for children, the format is more appropriate for an adult to read and to help a child complete the activities.
Adolescents
I Will Remember You: What to do when someone you love dies
Contains information on different religious traditions.
When Death Walks In: For teenagers facing grief
A look at ways of facing grief during the teen years, and gives important information about grief and what we can do about anger, sadness and all the emotions that come when death walks in.
Healing Your Grieving Heart: For teens
Speaks honestly to teens, affirming their thoughts and feelings and giving them dozens of teen-friendly ideas for understanding and coping with their grief.
All Ages
After the Funeral
This book addresses common concerns children may have after the loss of a loved one. Children are reassured that other people feel the same way through talking about their feelings.
The Empty Place: A Child's Guide Through Grief
When a sibling dies, there is an empty place in the house, at the table, and in her brother’s heart. Explores different feelings and positive ways to deal with grief. Includes information on beginning your own journal.
For Adults
What Happens After I Die? Jewish Views of Life After Death.
A Child’s View of Grief
An excellent, concise resource for parents of grieving kids. The companion videotape, written by and featuring Dr. Wolfelt as well as actual bereaved children and their families, explores several key principles of helping children cope with grief. In use by hundreds of hospices and funeral homes throughout North America.
Other Helpful Resources
Centering Corporation
(402) 553-1200
FAX (402) 553-0507
Center for Loss and Life Transition
(970) 226-6050
FAX (800) 922-6051
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