Books About Sadness

The Best Sadness Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for our other guide?

Explore our editor-reviewed guide to Feelings and Emotions, featuring 10 favorites and recommendations by age.

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Looking for excellent children's books about sadness? 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.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Sadness

When I'm Feeling Sad
Sale price
$958
Picture Book · 2005

When I'm Feeling Sad

By Trace Moroney · The Feelings series

A little rabbit discovers the power of a hug to chase away sadness.

18 pages
4.3 Goodreads · 265 ratings
$9.95Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: When the world feels gray and tears threaten to flood, a little rabbit knows the secret to lifting spirits. Join this tender journey as the rabbit navigates through sickness and family arguments, discovering that sometimes, all it takes is a heartfelt hug to banish the blues. Will you find comfort in this simple yet profound remedy?
The Shadow Elephant
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

The Shadow Elephant

By Nadine Robert, Valerio Vidali (Illustrator)

An elephant's sadness meets unexpected understanding.

48 pages· 391 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
4.3 Goodreads · 156 ratings
$18.95Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: In a world of vibrant savanna life, a blue elephant feels isolated by sorrow. As he navigates his shadowy emotions, he discovers that acceptance, not solutions, can bridge the gap between loneliness and connection. Will empathy from his colorful friends help him find peace? This tender tale explores the power of understanding and the beauty of being seen as you truly are.
My Elephant Is Blue
Sale price
$1805
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2021

My Elephant Is Blue

By Melinda Szymanik, Vasanti Unka (Illustrator)

Can anything lift the weight of sadness when it feels like an elephant on your chest?

32 pages
4.2 Goodreads · 173 ratings
$19.00Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: A young child feels crushed by an elephant named Blue, a symbol of their overwhelming sadness. As they search for ways to lighten this burden, they explore smiles, gentle nudges, and even chocolate. Will they find the key to making Blue disappear? This heartfelt journey invites readers to ponder how to cope with the heavy weight of emotions and discover hope in unexpected places.
A Shelter for Sadness
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2021

A Shelter for Sadness

By Anne Booth

A boy befriends his sadness, learning to embrace emotions and find beauty in the world.

40 pages
4.4 Goodreads · 760 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: A young boy builds a special place for his sadness, where they can sit, talk, and cry together. As he learns to embrace his emotions, he wonders if one day they will step out and see the world's beauty. This touching tale explores emotional wellbeing, encouraging children to understand and accept their feelings. With sadness personified, young readers are invited to connect deeply with the story's themes of emotional literacy and mental health.
Jenny Mei Is Sad
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2021

Jenny Mei Is Sad

By Tracy Subisak

A friend supports Jenny Mei, who hides her sadness behind smiles.

30 pages· 162 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
4.3 Goodreads · 455 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Jenny Mei seems happy, but her friend knows the truth—she's sad. Through laughter and blue Popsicles, her friend stands by her side, offering support in every moment. Discover how true friendship embraces both joy and sorrow, teaching kids the importance of being there for one another, no matter what. Can friendship help Jenny Mei find her smile again?
Maybe Tomorrow?
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

Maybe Tomorrow?

By Charlotte Agell, Ana Ramirez Gonzalez (Illustrator)

Can a joyful friend help lift the weight of sadness and lead to healing?

40 pages· 564 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
4.4 Goodreads · 1,028 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Elba carries a heavy block of sadness, slowing her down. Norris, always surrounded by butterflies, dances through life with joy. When they meet, Norris invites Elba to the ocean, sensing her hidden sorrow. As they journey together, can Norris's kindness and empathy help Elba lighten her burden? This touching tale explores the healing power of friendship and the strength found in shared journeys through grief and hardship. Will Elba's block shrink by the time they reach the shore, revealing the beauty of the world and the comfort of companionship?
Michael Rosen's Sad Book
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 0–18 · 2004

Michael Rosen's Sad Book

By Michael Rosen, Quentin Blake (Illustrator)

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

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (2005)
32 pages· 617 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
4.5 Goodreads · 3,557 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
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.
When Sadness Is at Your Door
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2018

When Sadness Is at Your Door

By Eva Eland · When Sadness Is at Your Door series

Explore sadness as a visitor, not a foe.

32 pages· 145 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
4.4 Goodreads · 3,486 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In 'When Sadness Is at Your Door,' sadness is a visitor, not a burden. Eva Eland invites readers to meet this feeling with curiosity and kindness. Through gentle activities like drawing and walking, discover how to coexist with sadness without fear. This beautifully illustrated book offers a mindful approach to emotional literacy, helping both children and adults navigate complex emotions with respect and understanding. What if sadness isn't something to overcome, but a guest to welcome?
Gray
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2024

Gray

By Laura Dockrill, Lauren Child (Illustrator)

Explore a child's moods through colors, finding love and acceptance in every shade.

40 pages
4.2 Goodreads · 338 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: A child's emotions shift like colors, from sunshine yellow to stormy gray. When feeling lost or out of place, vibrant hugs and soothing lullabies await. Even the dullest days can become a canvas for new colors. This tender tale reassures young hearts that they are never alone, offering comfort and acceptance through every hue.
When I Feel Sad
Sale price
$958
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2002

When I Feel Sad

By Cornelia Maude Spelman, Kathy Parkinson (Illustrator) · The Way I Feel series

A little guinea pig learns that sadness is temporary.

24 pages· 234 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
4.1 Goodreads · 237 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: A little guinea pig navigates the cloudy feeling of sadness when left out or unheard. As she encounters others' sadness, she discovers that these feelings don't last forever. Will she find comfort and joy again?
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Sadness Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about sadness for the youngest readers and listeners.

Baby Happy Baby Sad
Series
Sale price
$999

Baby Happy Baby Sad

Ages 0–3 · 2008

Baby's joy turns to sadness with a dropped ice cream and lost balloon.

I'm Feeling Sad
Series
Sale price
$599

I'm Feeling Sad

Ages 2–4 · 2016

Discover how Daniel Tiger learns to manage sadness and find joy again.

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Sadness Picture Books

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

Sometimes When I'm Sad
Series
Sale price
$1599

Sometimes When I'm Sad

Ages 4–8 · 2020

A child learns to manage overwhelming sadness with simple, empowering strategies.

Cheer Up, Mouse!
Sale price
$1299

Cheer Up, Mouse!

Ages 4–8 · 2013

Mouse's friends try everything to lift his spirits, but only a hug can help.

I'm Sad
Series
Sale price
$1799

I'm Sad

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A girl and a potato try to cheer up a sad flamingo.

Let the Light In
Sale price
$1799

Let the Light In

Ages 4–7 · 2024

Guide children from sadness to brighter days with simple, uplifting ideas.

I See You, Sad Bear
Sale price
$1899

I See You, Sad Bear

Ages 3–6 · 2023

A bear's sadness invites a friend's comforting presence.

I Feel Sad
Series
Sale price
$699

I Feel Sad

Ages 3–5 · 2020

Discover how a little rain cloud helps kids understand and manage sadness.

Albert Le Blanc
Sale price
$699

Albert Le Blanc

Ages 3–+ · 2023

A toy shop bear's frown sparks a quest for laughter and friendship.

I'm Not Happy
Series
Sale price
$1299

I'm Not Happy

Ages 4–8 · 2011

Can Ben turn his friends' frowns into smiles?

Sad, Sad Bear
Series
Sale price
$1799

Sad, Sad Bear

Ages 0–8 · 2021

Bear faces his first day at Cub Care. Will he find new friends?

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Sadness Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about sadness for developing and independent readers.

Sunshine On My Shoulders
Series
Sale price
$899

Sunshine On My Shoulders

Ages 4–8 · 2003

Discover the joy of sunshine and friendship through a musical journey with a father and daughter.

View all sadness chapter books