Books About Cancer

The Best Cancer Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about cancer? 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.

#7 in Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Cancer

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

Red, White, and Whole

By Rajani LaRocca

An Indian American girl faces her mother's illness, torn between cultural worlds and expectations.

Newbery Honor (2022)

224 pages· 21,311 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 8,247 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Reha, an Indian American girl, navigates the clash between her school life and family traditions. When her mother is diagnosed with leukemia, Reha's world shatters. Despite her fear of blood, she dreams of becoming a doctor to save her mother. Can she bridge the gap between her two worlds and meet her parents' expectations to heal her family? This poignant tale explores identity, cultural conflict, and the unyielding bonds of love.

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$2328

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2012

The Fault in Our Stars

A terminal girl meets a boy who changes her story forever.

318 pages· 65,985 words· Est. 6 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 5,858,394 ratings

$24.50Save 5%

Library Binding

Summary: Hazel, living with a terminal diagnosis, finds her world transformed when Augustus Waters enters her life at a support group. As their bond deepens, they navigate love, life, and the looming shadow of mortality. Will their connection rewrite Hazel's fate, or is it destined to end in heartbreak? Discover a tale that is as funny as it is poignant, exploring the unpredictable journey of being alive and in love.

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$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2021

Yolk

By Mary H. K. Choi

Estranged sisters must reunite and swap identities to face life-threatening challenges.

390 pages

3.9/5 Goodreads · 31,911 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Jayne and June Baek, once inseparable sisters, are now estranged. June's cancer diagnosis forces them back together, compelling Jayne to help her sister by swapping identities. As they navigate family secrets and personal struggles, will they uncover truths about each other and themselves? Can Jayne face her own hidden illness while trying to save June? This emotional journey tests their bond and reveals unexpected depths in their relationship.

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$1924

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2000

Hope Was Here

By Joan Bauer

A small-town diner becomes the battleground for a mayoral race against corruption.

Newbery Honor (2001)

186 pages· 42,314 words· Est. 4 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 21,608 ratings

$20.25Save 5%

Prebound-Glued

Summary: Hope moves to Wisconsin with her aunt to manage a diner, only to find herself swept into a mayoral campaign. The current owner, G.T., challenges a corrupt candidate, igniting a fight for justice. As Hope navigates new friendships and unexpected challenges, she discovers the power of community and the strength within herself. Will G.T.'s vision for change inspire the town, and can Hope find her own place in this unfolding drama? In a town where everyone needs a little hope, the stakes are high, and the future is uncertain.

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$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2012

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl

By Jesse Andrews

A high school filmmaker's life changes when he's forced to befriend a girl with cancer.

Cybils Award (2012)

295 pages· 55,561 words· Est. 5 hour read

3.5/5 Goodreads · 149,935 ratings

$17.95Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Greg Gaines has mastered the art of high school invisibility, making films with his only friend, Earl. But when his mom insists he reconnect with Rachel, a girl battling leukemia, Greg's carefully crafted anonymity crumbles. As Rachel stops her treatment, Greg and Earl decide to make a film for her, leading to unexpected consequences. Will Greg step out of the shadows and face the realities of friendship and loss? This hilarious and poignant journey explores the awkwardness of adolescence and the impact of genuine connections.

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$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2009

Wild Cat

By Dandi Daley Mackall · Book #3 in the Starlight Animal Rescue series

Kat has two weeks to prove herself worthy of adoption, but challenges at school and the animal rescue test her limits.

224 pages· 34,197 words· Est. 5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 232 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Mass Market Paperback

Summary: Twelve-year-old Kat feels the pressure to prove herself worthy of adoption by her foster family. With only two weeks, she faces obstacles at Starlight Animal Rescue and a demanding school project. As she takes on the role of 'cat shrink' for her classmates' pets, Kat wonders if her efforts will lead to success or overwhelming failure. Can she find her place in a world where animals and people alike seek belonging?

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$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 9–14 · 2018

The Magic of Melwick Orchard

By Rebecca Caprara

A magical tree offers hope to a struggling family. Can it save them?

376 pages

4.4/5 Goodreads · 118 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Isa's family is struggling—her sister is sick, her mom is depressed, and her dad is overworked. When Isa discovers a magical tree that grows new shoes, she sees a glimmer of hope. Can this enchanted orchard help her mend her family's broken pieces and bring them back together? As Isa navigates this newfound magic, she must decide how far she's willing to go to save those she loves. Will the tree's gifts be enough to heal her family, or will they uncover deeper challenges?

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

Ms. Bixby's Last Day

By John David Anderson

Three boys embark on a daring quest to honor their beloved teacher's last day.

336 pages· 68,957 words· Est. 9.5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 9,169 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Topher, Brand, and Steve face an unexpected challenge when their cherished teacher, Ms. Bixby, announces she can't finish the school year. Determined to give her a memorable last day, the boys devise a bold plan. As they navigate their quest, their unique stories reveal the profound impact Ms. Bixby has had on their lives and the deep bond they share. Will their risky endeavor succeed in honoring the teacher who saw the best in them? Discover the heartwarming journey of friendship and gratitude in this unforgettable tale.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2023

The Vanderbeekers Ever After

By Karina Yan Glaser · Book #7 in the The Vanderbeekers series

A family faces illness, finding hope and strength in their community.

416 pages· 60,334 words· Est. 8.5 hour read

4.6/5 Goodreads · 2,869 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: The Vanderbeekers eagerly anticipate a wedding, but a sibling's grave diagnosis shifts their focus to hospital visits. As they navigate this upheaval, they also aid a critically ill friend. Can the family's love and resilience overcome their greatest challenge yet? Discover how they find hope amidst adversity in this heartfelt series finale.

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$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2022

The Hope of Elephants

By Amanda Rawson Hill

Facing her father's cancer, Cass must decide if knowing her genetic fate is worth the risk.

480 pages· 39,014 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

4.5/5 Goodreads · 378 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Cass's world is shaken when her father's cancer returns, and she learns she might inherit a genetic mutation. With dreams of baseball and travel, she faces a choice: take a test to know her fate or embrace uncertainty. As her father's condition worsens, Cass clings to their cherished World Series tradition, navigating the storm of illness and hope. Will she find the courage to face the unknown, or will fear hold her back? Dive into Cass's poignant journey of love, resilience, and the power of hope.

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Cancer Picture Books

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

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$1899

The Lemonade Club

Ages 6–9 · 2007

A fifth-grade class unites to support a friend battling leukemia, turning hardship into hope.

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$1699

Hair for Mama

Ages 4–8 · 2007

A boy's quest to restore his mother's hair reveals deeper truths about love and family.

Sale price

$1799

Cancer Hates Kisses

Ages 3–5 · 2017

A mother battles cancer, sharing her journey with her child through a heartfelt story.

Sale price

$1699

How Do You Care for a Very Sick Bear?

Ages 2–6 · 2019

How do you support a friend when they're too sick to play?

Series

Sale price

$1599

Terry Fox

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A young athlete's marathon journey raises hope and funds for cancer research.

Sale price

$1495

And Still They Bloom

Ages 9–12 · 2012

Two siblings navigate grief and healing after losing their mother.

Sale price

$1200

The Hope Tree

Ages 5–8 · 1999

Children navigate their mothers' breast cancer journey.

Sale price

$1495

Our Dad Is Getting Better

Ages 4–8 · 2007

Children navigate life after a parent's cancer treatment ends.

Sale price

$1699

You Are the Best Medicine

Ages 4–8 · 2010

Can a child's love be the best medicine during a loved one's cancer battle?

Sale price

$1699

When a Kid Like Me Fights Cancer

Ages 3–5 · 2019

A boy battles cancer, discovering change and unwavering support.

View all cancer picture books

Browse by age

Cancer Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about cancer for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$899

When Friendship Followed Me Home

Ages 10–13 · 2016

A foster kid's life changes after rescuing a dog and meeting a unique girl.

Sale price

$799

The Honest Truth

Ages 8–12 · 2015

A boy and his dog embark on a daring journey to conquer a mountain, defying illness and fate.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1299

Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie

Ages 10–13 · 2005

Steven's life unravels when his brother falls ill, challenging his family and dreams.

Sale price

$1699

This Appearing House

Ages 8–12 · 2022

A mysterious house appears, demanding something from Jac. Can she escape its grasp?

#2 in Series

Sale price

$799

After Ever After

Ages 12–15 · 2010

A teen in remission faces life's fragility, family secrets, and unexpected love.

Sale price

$899

Wink

Ages 9–12 · 2020

A seventh grader faces a rare diagnosis, challenging his quest for normalcy.

Sale price

$1699

Solving for M

Ages 8–12 · 2019

A math journal helps a girl navigate school challenges and family struggles.

Sale price

$799

Mustaches for Maddie

Ages 8–11 · 2017

A girl faces a brain tumor with humor and courage, battling fears and school drama.

Sale price

$2330

A Monster Calls

Ages 12–17 · 2011

A boy confronts an ancient monster demanding a dangerous truth.

Sale price

$1699

Echo's Sister

Ages 8–12 · 2018

A new school, a sister's illness, and a quest for hope.

Sale price

$1699

Halfway Normal

Ages 9–13 · 2017

A cancer survivor navigates middle school, secrets, and new friendships.

Sale price

$1595

Pink Hair and Other Terrible Ideas

Ages 9–12 · 2019

A secret threatens to unravel Josephine's world as her mom battles cancer.

View all cancer chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about death, grief, and bereavement Books about eating disorders and body image Books about falling in love Books about feelings and emotions Books about hard work Books about making friends Books about mistaken identity Books about mother-daughter relationships

Our 10 Favorite Books About Cancer

Great books, picked for their age.

Cancer Picture Books

Cancer Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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