Helping children understand and cope with the concepts of death and dying can be incredibly challenging. Having the right resources can make a significant difference. This list of top 10 best children’s books on death and dying offers compassionate, insightful, and age-appropriate stories to aid in navigating this difficult topic.
Written by Jamie Clarke
Best Children’s Books on Death and Dying: Comprehensive Guide
10. The Invisible String (The Invisible String, 1) by Patrice Karst
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (20,468 ratings)
Category: Children’s Books on Death and Dying
“The Invisible String” is a touching tale about the enduring connection between loved ones, even when they are not physically present. The metaphor of the invisible string offers comfort and assurance to children experiencing loss.
Buy “The Invisible String” and help your child understand the unbreakable bonds of love.
9. The Memory Box: A Book About Grief by Joanna Rowland
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (2,420 ratings)
Category: Children’s Books on Death and Dying
“The Memory Box” gently guides children through the grieving process by encouraging them to create a memory box to honor and remember their loved one. This beautifully illustrated book provides a practical approach to dealing with grief.
Purchase “The Memory Box” to help your child preserve precious memories.
8. The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (3,044 ratings)
Category: Children’s Books on Death and Dying
A powerful story about loss, resilience, and the healing power of art. “The Stars Beneath Our Feet” follows a young boy in Harlem who finds solace and inspiration in building with LEGO bricks after the death of his brother.
Get “The Stars Beneath Our Feet” to inspire resilience in your child.
7. Simon Sort of Says: Newbery Honor Award Winner by Erin Bow
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (168 ratings)
Category: Children’s Books on Death and Dying
This Newbery Honor Award winner tells the story of Simon, a boy coping with a tragic loss through humor and resilience. It’s a heartwarming tale that combines sorrow with a hopeful message.
Order “Simon Sort of Says” to offer your child a narrative of hope and healing.
6. When You Trap a Tiger: (Newbery Medal Winner) by Tae Keller
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (2,766 ratings)
Category: Children’s Books on Death and Dying
Winner of the Newbery Medal, “When You Trap a Tiger” is a magical realism story that explores Korean folklore and the theme of loss. It’s a beautiful tale of family, heritage, and the strength to let go.
Buy “When You Trap a Tiger” to introduce your child to cultural tales and coping mechanisms.
5. The Invisible Leash: An Invisible String Story About the Loss of a Pet (The Invisible String, 3) by Patrice Karst
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (1,741 ratings)
Category: Children’s Books on Death and Dying
This sequel to “The Invisible String” focuses on the loss of a pet, offering comfort to children mourning their furry friends. It’s a gentle reminder that love remains, even after a pet is gone.
Purchase “The Invisible Leash” to help your child cope with the loss of a pet.
4. God Gave Us Heaven by Lisa T. Bergren
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (4,305 ratings)
“God Gave Us Heaven” provides a comforting explanation of heaven from a Christian perspective. It’s a reassuring story that addresses children’s questions about what happens after death.
Order “God Gave Us Heaven” for a faith-based approach to understanding death.
3. Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (4,370 ratings)
“Dog Heaven” is a heartfelt book that paints a comforting picture of the afterlife for pets. It’s a wonderful way to help children grieve the loss of a beloved animal companion.
Buy “Dog Heaven” to provide solace to your child during pet loss.
2. The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 out of 5 stars (4,758 ratings)
In “The Rabbit Listened,” a child processes a range of emotions after a loss with the help of a kind rabbit. This book beautifully illustrates the importance of empathy and listening.
Get “The Rabbit Listened” to teach your child about the power of empathy.
1. The Invisible String (The Invisible String, 1) by Patrice Karst
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (20,468 ratings)
Topping our list again is “The Invisible String,” an enduring favorite for its powerful message of connection and love. This book is a staple for families dealing with loss and separation.
Order “The Invisible String” to provide your child with a sense of lasting connection.
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Discover the top 10 children’s books on death and dying. These expertly curated books help children navigate grief with compassion and understanding.
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children’s books, death and dying, grief, coping, loss, kids, parenting, books for kids, children’s literature, Patrice Karst, Cori Doerrfeld, Cynthia Rylant, Lisa T. Bergren, Tae Keller, Erin Bow, David Barclay Moore, Joanna Rowland, top 10 books, best books
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