Books About Bereavement · 56 titles considered

The Best Bereavement Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about bereavement? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Where the Red Fern Grows
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Bereavement

Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1961

Where the Red Fern Grows

By Wilson Rawls · Book #1 in the Where the Red Fern Grows series

A boy's dream of owning two dogs leads to triumph and tragedy in the Ozarks.

282 pages· 76,899 words· Est. 10.5 hour read
6.7/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 448,708 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Summary: Billy finally gets his dream dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann, and together they become the best hunting team in the Ozarks. But as their fame grows, so does the shadow of impending tragedy. Can Billy find hope amidst despair and learn the true meaning of friendship and loss? This timeless tale explores the unbreakable bond between a boy and his dogs, promising adventure, heartache, and the enduring power of love.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1952

Charlotte's Web

A pig befriends a spider who devises a plan to save his life from slaughter.

Newbery Honor (1953)
184 pages· 32,307 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,093,691 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Summary: In a barn filled with secrets, a pig named Wilbur faces an uncertain fate. His only hope lies in Charlotte, a clever spider weaving words into her web to save him. With the help of a self-serving rat and a girl named Fern who understands their language, they embark on a heartwarming journey of friendship and survival. As the seasons change, will Charlotte's plan succeed in sparing Wilbur's life? Discover the magic of childhood and the power of unlikely alliances in this timeless tale of love and courage.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 1958

Old Yeller

A boy's life changes when a stray dog becomes his unlikely hero in the Texas hills.

158 pages· 36,061 words· Est. 4 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 105,218 ratings
$23.00Save 5%
Summary: In the rugged Texas hill country, young Travis faces the daunting task of managing his family's farm while his father is away. Enter Old Yeller, a scruffy, yellow dog who arrives uninvited but soon proves indispensable. As Travis battles wild animals and the challenges of frontier life, Old Yeller becomes his loyal companion, saving the family from danger. But when tragedy strikes, Travis must confront the harsh realities of love and loss. Can he find the strength to let go of the dog who taught him so much about courage and friendship?
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2016

Ida, Always

By Caron Levis, Charles Santoso (Illustrator)

A polar bear faces loss and finds comfort in memories.

40 pages· 778 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
6.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.5/5 Goodreads · 2,775 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Summary: In a bustling city park, polar bears Gus and Ida share an unbreakable bond. When Ida falls gravely ill, Gus must confront the heartache of losing his dearest friend. As they navigate this painful journey together, Gus discovers that Ida's presence lingers in the echoes of their shared world. Inspired by a true friendship, this poignant tale explores the enduring power of love and memory, leaving readers to ponder: How do we hold onto those we've lost?
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2010

Wherever You Are

A parent's love follows their child, no matter the distance.

32 pages· 272 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud
5.9/7 Bookroo experts·4.6/5 Goodreads · 4,204 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Summary: A parent's love knows no bounds, following their child wherever they go. This heartfelt tale captures the enduring bond between parent and child, a gift that transcends distance and time. Discover how love shapes their journey, offering comfort and connection, whether near or far. What does love look like when it becomes a constant companion? Share this touching story with loved ones of all ages, and explore the timeless power of love that unites families across any distance.
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2014

The Heaven of Animals

Discover a magical place where the love for lost pets lives on forever.

32 pages
4.4/5 Goodreads · 394 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Summary: In a magical realm where every pet's joy is eternal, find solace in the belief that the love for your animal friends never fades. This comforting tale offers hope and healing for those grieving the loss of a beloved pet, painting a picture of an idyllic heaven where animals play and bask in eternal happiness. Will this vision of a pet paradise bring peace to your heart?
Picture Book · Ages 3–6 · 2023

Goodbye

Explore grief with children through simple language and vivid imagery.

40 pages
4.4/5 Goodreads · 153 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Summary: This picture book gently introduces young children to the concept of grief, using clear language and engaging illustrations. It encourages open conversations about loss, helping kids understand and express their feelings. Designed for both children and adults, it provides a supportive framework to discuss difficult topics, fostering self-awareness and empathy. With interactive text and additional resources, it empowers families to navigate the complexities of grief together.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2024

Gut Reaction

A young baker battles chronic pain while chasing her dream in a high-stakes competition.

272 pages· 51,557 words· Est. 7 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 506 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Summary: Tess Medina, a talented young baker, faces a daunting challenge: chronic pain that threatens her culinary dreams. As she prepares for a prestigious baking competition, Tess must confront her worsening condition and the emotional scars of losing her father. With a team of new friends by her side, she strives to prove her skills and honor her father's memory. Will Tess find the strength to overcome her physical and emotional struggles, or will her dreams crumble under the pressure? Discover a heartfelt journey of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of passion in "Gut Reaction."
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2023

Cape

By Kevin Johnson, Kitt Thomas (Illustrator)

A child finds strength in a cape while facing profound loss.

40 pages
4.5/5 Goodreads · 516 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Summary: A grieving child clings to a cape, a gift from a lost loved one, to shield against overwhelming memories. As the funeral unfolds, the cape becomes a source of comfort and strength, helping him navigate the bittersweet journey of remembering. Will he find solace in the memories he once avoided? This poignant tale explores the heartache and healing of loss, revealing that even superheroes need support.
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2021

The Longest Letsgoboy

By Derick Wilder, Catia Chien (Illustrator)

A dog's final journey reveals love's enduring bond beyond life.

48 pages
4.5/5 Goodreads · 651 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: A loyal dog embarks on his last walk with his beloved girl, savoring the world's wonders one final time. As he peacefully departs, their bond transcends life's end, offering a comforting perspective on loss. Through the dog's eyes, discover a unique language and an uplifting take on death, inviting readers to explore empathy and the enduring power of love.
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Browse by age

Bereavement Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about bereavement for preschool and elementary-age readers.

If You Miss Me

Ages 4–8 · 2021

Charlie seeks solace in the moon after losing her beloved dance partner, Grandma.

The Boy and the Gorilla

Ages 4–8 · 2020

A grieving boy finds solace in an imaginary gorilla, exploring loss and healing.

Missing Jack

Ages 3–18 · 2015

A boy faces losing his beloved cat and finds unexpected friendship with a new feline.

Finn's Feather

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A boy finds a feather from his lost brother, sparking a journey of memory and resilience.

One Wave at a Time

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A boy navigates the turbulent waves of grief after losing his father.

The End of Something Wonderful

Ages 5–8 · 2019

Guide children through the loss of a pet with humor and warmth.

A Last Goodbye

Ages 4–+ · 2020

Discover how animals, like humans, mourn and find hope in loss.

Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1799

A Stone for Sascha

Ages 5–9 · 2018

A girl's beach walk reveals a profound truth, transforming her grief over a lost pet.

The Invisible String

Ages 4–8 · 2000

A parent's love will always be present in a child's life, even when they are not physically there.

Something Very Sad Happened

Ages 2–4 · 2016

Help young children understand and cope with the loss of a loved one.

My Old Pal, Oscar
Sale price
$1695

My Old Pal, Oscar

Ages 5–7 · 2016

A boy's heart heals as a stray dog follows him, offering new hope.

No Matter what

Ages 4–7 · 1999

A little fox questions if love remains despite changes.

View all bereavement picture books
Browse by age

Bereavement Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about bereavement for developing and independent readers.

When Someone Very Special Dies

Ages 4–8 · 1988

Help children understand and cope with death.

Mixed Up

Ages 8–12 · 2023

Two boys swap memories, losing their own. Can they uncover the truth before it's too late?

The Way Home Looks Now

Ages 8–12 · 2015

A boy's baseball dreams clash with family grief. Can the game heal their broken bonds?

The Land of Yesterday

Ages 8–12 · 2018

A girl ventures into a forbidden realm to reunite her shattered family.

Waiting for Augusta
Sale price
$799

Waiting for Augusta

Ages 8–12 · 2016

A boy's journey to Augusta may hold the key to healing his heart.

Mayday

Ages 8–12 · 2016

After a crash, Wayne must find his voice to navigate family and friendship challenges.

The Girl with More Than One Heart

Ages 8–12 · 2018

A grieving girl hears her father's voice in her heart, guiding her through life's chaos.

The Reckless Club

Ages 8–12 · 2018

Five kids face unexpected bonds and revelations during a day of punishment at a retirement home.

Untwine

Ages 12–16 · 2015

A tragic accident leaves a twin trapped in silence, unraveling family secrets.

The Afterwards

Ages 8–12 · 2018

Ember ventures into the afterworld to rescue her best friend, facing unknown dangers.

Sunlight on the Snow Leopard

Ages 6–9 · 2023

Lost in the Himalayas, can they escape before the ghost finds them?

Windfall
Sale price
$995

Windfall

Ages 10–14 · 2011

A teen's quest for change risks everything when she defies authority.

Keep exploring
Books about coping with deathBooks about human-animal relationshipsBooks about friendshipBooks about helping othersBooks about hunting

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