Books About Death And Dying

The Best Death And Dying Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about death and dying? 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.

Elsewhere
The Shortlist

Our 3 Favorite Books About Death And Dying

Sale price
$2133
Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2005

Elsewhere

By Gabrielle Zevin

In a world where life runs backward, can Liz embrace a future she never wanted?

288 pages· 59,918 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
3.9/5 Goodreads · 73,869 ratings
$22.45Save 5%
Summary: Fifteen-year-old Liz Hall finds herself in Elsewhere, a place where life moves in reverse. As she ages backward, Liz struggles with letting go of her dreams of turning sixteen, getting a driver's license, and going to college. Living with a grandmother she never knew, Liz must navigate this strange afterlife. Can she find meaning in a life lived backward, or will she forever yearn for the life she left behind? Discover a world where the past becomes the future and every moment is a chance to redefine what it means to live.
Chapter Book · Ages 11–15 · 2011

Dead End in Norvelt

Book #1 in the Norvelt series

Grounded for life, a boy uncovers secrets in his town's obituaries, leading to unexpected adventures.

Newbery Medal (2012)
384 pages· 73,677 words· Est. 7 hour read
3.7/5 Goodreads · 22,432 ratings
$10.99Save 5%
Summary: Jack's summer plans crumble when he's grounded, but life takes a wild turn as he helps his eccentric neighbor write obituaries. Each story unravels secrets of their quirky town, leading Jack into a whirlwind of bizarre events, including a dancing plague and a possible murder. As Jack navigates this strange adventure, he discovers that the past is never truly gone, and the future is full of surprises. Will Jack uncover the truth behind the mysteries, or will he be swept away by the chaos? Dive into a tale where history and hilarity collide in unexpected ways.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2018

The Afterwards

By A.F. Harrold, Emily Gravett (Illustrator)

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

208 pages· 27,699 words· Est. 4 hour read
3.6/5 Goodreads · 541 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Summary: Ember's world shatters when her best friend Ness dies unexpectedly. Desperate to reunite, Ember discovers a path to the afterworld, a realm of the recently deceased. Determined to bring Ness back, she embarks on a perilous journey, confronting the mysteries and dangers of this shadowy domain. How far will Ember go to restore what she has lost, and what will she discover about friendship and sacrifice along the way? This darkly fantastical tale, enriched with enchanting illustrations, explores the profound lengths we go to for those we love.
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