Books about Death

Sometime in every child's life they will have experiences with death.  Some may be far removed, like a great-grandparent that they've only meet once or twice.  But other deaths will be much closer to their hearts and will be difficult to get through.  Loving and understanding parents and caregivers are key for children as they grieve.  However, sharing books about death and dying can also be very beneficial to children.  Books are something children are familiar with and to be able to identify with a character in a story who is facing similar feelings can be comforting to a child.  Books can also help parents and caregivers understand their children's feelings and how to help them through the difficult times.

Parents and caregivers need to be sensitive to child's feelings and needs.  Two most important things a parent can do is:  1. Be available  2. Listen  Every child will grieve differently and on a different timetable. 

The library has several books about death and dying that may help your child as they grieve a loss--of a family member, a friend, or a pet.  Here are a few examples of books available about death.

The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic

And What Comes After a Thousand?  by Anette Bley

Good-bye Sheepie by Robert Burleigh; illustrated by Peter Catalanotto

Grandma's Purple Flowers by Adjoa J. Burrowes

When People Die by Sarah Levete

What is Goodbye?  by Nikki Grimes; Illustrated by Raul Colon

There are also books written for adults to help children deal with grief, such as:

The Journey Through Grief and Loss:
Helping yourself and your child when grief is shared
by Robert Zucker

What Children Need When They Grieve:
The Four Essentials--Routine, Love, Honesty, and Security
by Julia Wilcox Rathkey

This blog (Books that Heal Kids) is a wonderful resource of additional books that you may want to use when addressing grief situations with your child.