Michael Rosen's Sad Book

Written by Michael Rosen · Illustrated by Quentin Blake

Explore the depths of sadness and the journey to cope with loss.

4.5 Goodreads · 3,541 ratings

32 pages· 617 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud· ~300L

$18.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Michael Rosen shares his poignant journey through grief after losing his son, Eddie. Illustrated by Quentin Blake, this heartfelt narrative delves into the universal experience of sadness. How does one navigate the shadows of sorrow? Discover the small acts of resilience that bring light to the darkest days. This touching story speaks to anyone who has ever felt the weight of sadness, offering solace and understanding.

From the publisher

With unmitigated honesty, a touch of humor, and sensitive illustrations by Quentin Blake, Michael Rosen explores the experience of sadness in a way that resonates with us all.

Sometimes I’m sad and I don’t know why.

It’s just a cloud that comes along and covers me up.

Sad things happen to everyone, and sometimes people feel sad for no reason at all. What makes Michael Rosen sad is thinking about his son, Eddie, who died suddenly at the age of eighteen. In this book the author writes about his sadness, how it affects him, and some of the things he does to cope with it — like telling himself that everyone has sad stuff (not just him) and trying every day to do something he can be proud of. Expressively illustrated by the extraordinary Quentin Blake, this is a very personal story that speaks to everyone, from children to parents to grandparents, teachers to grief counselors. Whether or not you have known what it’s like to feel deeply sad, the truth of this book will surely touch you.