Books About Cancer

The Best Cancer Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

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.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Cancer

Red, White, and Whole
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 Goodreads · 8,270 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.
The Fault in Our Stars
Sale price
$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 Goodreads · 5,877,256 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.
Yolk
Sale price
$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 Goodreads · 31,992 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.
Hope Was Here
Sale price
$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 Goodreads · 21,624 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.
Me and Earl and the Dying Girl
Sale price
$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 Goodreads · 150,104 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.
Wild Cat
Sale price
$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 Goodreads · 236 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?
The Magic of Melwick Orchard
Sale price
$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 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?
Ms. Bixby's Last Day
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 Goodreads · 9,190 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.
The Vanderbeekers Ever After
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 Goodreads · 2,911 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.
The Hope of Elephants
Sale price
$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 Goodreads · 379 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.

The Lemonade Club
Sale price
$1899

The Lemonade Club

Ages 6–9 · 2007

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

Hair for Mama
Sale price
$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.

Cancer Hates Kisses
Sale price
$1799

Cancer Hates Kisses

Ages 3–5 · 2017

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

Terry Fox
Series
Sale price
$1599

Terry Fox

Ages 4–8 · 2022

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

And Still They Bloom
Sale price
$1495

And Still They Bloom

Ages 9–12 · 2012

Two siblings navigate grief and healing after losing their mother.

The Hope Tree
Sale price
$1200

The Hope Tree

Ages 5–8 · 1999

Children navigate their mothers' breast cancer journey.

You Are the Best Medicine
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?

View all cancer picture books
Browse by age

Cancer Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about cancer for developing and independent readers.

The Honest Truth
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.

This Appearing House
Sale price
$1699

This Appearing House

Ages 8–12 · 2022

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

After Ever After
#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.

Wink
Sale price
$899

Wink

Ages 9–12 · 2020

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

Solving for M
Sale price
$1699

Solving for M

Ages 8–12 · 2019

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

Mustaches for Maddie
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.

A Monster Calls
Sale price
$2330

A Monster Calls

Ages 12–17 · 2011

A boy confronts an ancient monster demanding a dangerous truth.

Echo's Sister
Sale price
$1699

Echo's Sister

Ages 8–12 · 2018

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

Halfway Normal
Sale price
$1699

Halfway Normal

Ages 9–13 · 2017

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

View all cancer chapter books
Keep exploring
Books about death, grief, and bereavementBooks about eating disorders and body imageBooks about falling in loveBooks about feelings and emotionsBooks about hard workBooks about making friendsBooks about mistaken identityBooks about mother-daughter relationships